Private sector should play a more active role in tech awards

After six months of Google gadget competition, Antoine Nzeyimana from the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology was declared the winner. Kenya was heavily represented with four of the five in the runners-up category.

It remains a matter of time before the gadgets become a hit among Internet users in Africa and the world. It will prove that there is skill and determination in Africa. However, those are not the only gadgets that the students can create, and I am sure they have other ideas on how technology can play a role in the way we work.

Like many other students, the winners may be in need of some business tips to turn them from pure engineers and scientists to business people. Maybe another company should start a competition on the best business plan developed by engineering students.

The students should also participate in global competitions, like the Google competition that requires techies to partner with a local business, build a Web site and attract the highest number of visitors in order to win. South Africa ranks high in such competitions, which can be credited to the vibrant technology sector.

It is important for us not to rely so much on the Google competition, which may be annual, but find ways to assist each other in whatever small way. After all, the private sector has been identified as a major driver in the sector.

For instance, Ericsson is working with software developers to design ways to tackle the challenges facing the industry. Other companies can come in and support various sectors in the industry.