Conlog, a smart metering solutions provider, has partnered with Wits University’s Tshimologong Precinct to launch a blockchain incubation programme, Reapele
The programme, which focuses on blockchain and smart city solutions, will be hosted and run by the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct in Braamfontein.
The company stated that the programme will be delivered in seven phases and aims to innovate and nurture technology businesses, digital products and ideas, turning them into viable businesses.
Kendal Makgamathe, head of marketing, Tshimologong Precinct, said, “We are excited to launch this new project, which will assist in developing Conlog’s open innovation capability in smart connected metering technology.”
The first phase of the program calls for young software developers and technologists to participate in a meet-up event after which an online assessment will identify top performers using custom coding assessments in relevant programming languages such as Java, JavaScript, C++ or Python, C#.
Once the successful candidates have been identified, the candidates will be trained on the core principles and foundations of coding using blockchain.
The candidates will use their new coding skills in a 3-day hackathon, which is aimed at challenging the candidates to develop a blockchain proof of concept in partnership with BlockStarters, a blockchain hub and business incubator.
The hackathon will provide an opportunity for top technologists to win the grand prize of US$1414, while a design sprint, which consists of a five-day intensive design thinking programme will enable the candidates to address their new technology with real customers.
Reapele will offer an intensive incubation period for the incumbent software developers who have developed an existing Blockchain solution.
Limited to a number of individuals, the incubation will provide a platform for further development of the proof of concept (POC), culminating in live demonstrations of blockchain technology to potential clients. The incubation will also help to develop a validated marketing plan and a tried and tested business model.
Lance Hawkins-Dady, head of engineering of Conlog, stated that Conlog is passionate about solving challenges with innovative technological solutions and considers Blockchain a key part of digitisation innovation.
