Jules Ntumba, Tso Mello and Fiona Ndlovu.
The SITA Air Transport Community Foundation, based in the UK, in partnership with Wits University and the Tshimologong Precinct, has awarded a $10 000 prize to Wits University students Jules Ntumba, Tso Mello and Fiona Ndlovu as winners of a transport innovation challenge. The group, one of seven finalists, was shortlisted through a competition to address what information, tools or technology first-time air travellers in Africa need to make their journeys easy, successful and enjoyable.
Team One Exceptional’s members, Jules Ntumba, Tso Mello and Fiona Ndlovu were awarded the winning prize for their idea, which was targeted at the +50-year-old first time traveller. Most way-finding schemes in airports will be useless for an elderly person who is illiterate and has had little or no exposure to technology. The 1E team’s concept will alleviate the burden of asking for directions countless times with the introduction of 3D shapes (called COSHAs) that show directions that no one could miss. The shapes give directions, provide seats and avail electric sockets. Due to their size they cannot be used to lead people to all the numerous locations like ticket sales offices, to various check-ins and boarding gates. But they can lead a first-time air traveller, the elderly or an illiterate person from any airport entrance to a booth where they will then be assisted by a helper.
The trio from Wits University, who recently completed their Bachelor of Science degrees in Aeronautical Engineering in June, and plan to use the prize money for a start-up company. Teams were judged on originality, target audience, solutions, report and presentations. The SITA also decided to award two additional prizes for the runner ups. These included Team Ava’s Alice Yang, Sean Morrow, Linda Khumalo and Muhammed Chand; and Team Wits Elites’ Rachel Mohlomi, Nqobile Mhlanga and Takatso Molekane, with each team being awarded $1000.
Contact Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct, Tel 011 717-6390, info@jcse.org.za
