Johannesburg, South Africa – 19 September 2025 – With Africa’s digital economy set to increase, building the next generation of AI and testing talent has never been more critical. Expleo, a global leader in technology, consulting, and engineering services, is proud to support the Testing AI Hackathon 2025 at the University of Johannesburg. A platform where students, testers and innovators will collaborate under the theme: “Unleashing African Innovation through AI & Testing Excellence.”
Globally, research shows that up to 85 million jobs could go unfilled due to a shortage of digital skills. (World Economic Forum). In South Africa, this gap is already a barrier to growth, making initiatives like the Testing AI Hackathon vital for preparing young professionals to thrive in the digital era.
Expleo not only provided mentorship during the Ideathon, a brainstorming session ahead of the Hackathon, but will take a hands-on approach in the upcoming Hackathon, which forms part of their broader strategy to empower young professionals with the technical, professional, and personal skills they need to excel in the digital world through programmes like Expleo’s Digital Skills Factory.
Highlights from the Ideathon
On the 30th August 2025, 50 participants formed teams to brainstorm innovative AI solutions to common software testing challenges.
Wayne Sinclair, Training Manager at Expleo Academy, reflected, “The creativity we saw at the Ideathon proves Africa’s next generation isn’t just ready for the digital future, they’re ready to lead it.”
Jay-Jay Ngwenya, Senior Manager at Expleo in South Africa, who presented on the evolution of software testing in the age of AI, reflected, “The future of testing combines human insight with AI-driven tools. Seeing students already thinking this way shows the next generation is ready to shape the future of quality assurance.”
Looking Ahead to the Hackathon
The excitement continues with the Hackathon on the 20th September 2025 at UJ’s Auckland Park Campus. Participants will bring their ideas to life, applying AI and testing practices to solve real-life challenges.
Expleo invites businesses to be part of shaping South Africa’s digital future. Explore how you can access project-ready talent while creating meaningful opportunities through the Digital Skills Factory.
See Expleo DSF for more information.
Media Contact
Linda Kubeka
Marketing & Communications
Email: Linda.Kubeka@expleogroup.com
Telephone: +27 10 900 1542
