By Jennifer Mande
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the workplace, students and young professionals face growing pressure to adapt to new technologies and changing industry demands. Student Living SA is encouraging young people to approach these changes as an opportunity to develop digital skills, improve productivity and prepare for the future of work.
The organisation will host its annual News Literacy Workshop on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, under the theme “Digital Skills 4A Digital Future.” The virtual event will run from 10:00 to 12:00 (SAST) via Zoom, focusing on the role of AI and digital skills in journalism, public relations (PR) and content production.
The workshop aims to help participants understand how AI can be used responsibly and productively, while recognising the importance of human judgement, critical thinking and ethical decision-making. It will also explore how digital tools can support communication, creativity, entrepreneurship and professional development.
Rather than viewing technological change solely as a threat to future careers, participants will be encouraged to identify opportunities to learn, adapt and build skills relevant to an increasingly digital workplace.
Voices shaping the digital conversation
The programme will feature professionals from entrepreneurship, marketing and strategic communication, offering perspectives on how digital transformation is influencing the world of work.
Siphosethu Mzayiya, founder of FNDR Circle, will bring an entrepreneurial perspective to the discussion. FNDR Circle focuses on helping entrepreneurs access opportunities and resources to establish and grow their businesses. His contribution will explore how digital opportunities can help turn ideas into action and support business development.
Ibrahim Lukombe, senior tutor at the University of Johannesburg and media manager of the Nedbank IMC Conference, will contribute his experience in strategic communication, marketing and media. His perspective will inform discussions on how aspiring and established communication professionals can respond to technological change and develop relevant digital skills.
The workshop will be hosted by Christopher Mcinga, co-founder of MeD8 Media, who will guide the programme and discussions on preparing for the future of work.
Turning uncertainty into opportunity
As digital technologies become more prominent across industries, access to practical knowledge and guidance is increasingly important for young people preparing to enter the workplace.
Through the workshop, Student Living SA aims to create a platform where participants can ask questions, exchange ideas and explore how AI can support their learning, careers and professional goals.
The initiative promotes a balanced approach to AI adoption: understanding what the technology can do, recognising its limitations and applying it responsibly. By combining digital proficiency with human judgement and critical thinking, young professionals can better prepare for opportunities and challenges in a changing employment landscape.
Partner with us to expand the initiative
Student Living SA has welcomed supporters who have already committed to helping make the workshop possible. Their contributions help create opportunities for students and young professionals to access relevant knowledge about the changing world of work.
The organisation is also inviting additional businesses, organisations and potential sponsors to partner with the initiative. Further support could help expand the workshop’s reach, strengthen the learning experience and create more opportunities for young people to develop digital skills.
Partnerships could take the form of sponsorship, learning resources, professional expertise or other forms of collaboration that support the initiative’s objectives.
Student Living SA encourages organisations interested in contributing to the development of the next generation of communication professionals to get involved.
Be part of the conversation
Students, recent graduates and young professionals interested in journalism, PR and content production are encouraged to register for the workshop and participate in discussions about AI, digital skills and workplace readiness.
Attendance is limited, and early registration is encouraged.
Event details
- Event: Digital Skills 4A Digital Future – Annual News Literacy Workshop 2026
- Date: Tuesday, 10 November 2026
- Time: 10:00–12:00 (SAST)
- Venue: Online via Zoom
- Target audience: Journalism, PR and content production students, recent graduates and young professionals
Join Student Living SA in exploring how AI can support learning, professional growth and preparation for the future of work.
