Stellenbosch Network in partnership with Ranyaka, SCAN, Stellenbosch University LaunchLab, Stellenbosch University (SU) and the Department of Science & Innovation’s Regional Innovation Support Programme (RISP) launched the 2024 edition of the #Ideasforchange Challenge earlier this year. The focus for this challenge is to tackle pressing social issues affecting the Stellenbosch community.
The #IdeasForChange Social Innovation Challenge focuses on two specific issues faced by the Stellenbosch community: Crime and safety, and infrastructure (Traffic, Transport, and Mobility). The top three finalists are as follows:
Tumelo Mokoena: SafeGuard Stellies (SGS)
As an engineering student at Stellenbosch University, Tumelo is passionate about using his skills to tackle crime. Motivated by personal experience, he aims to engage the engineering faculty in developing drones as part of a community safety effort.
SafeGuard Stellies is an innovative safety system designed to protect Stellenbosch's vulnerable student population. It combines a panic bracelet, a mobile app, and drone technology for rapid emergency responses.
Key Features:
- Panic Bracelet: A wearable device that sends an instant distress signal when tapped.
- Panic App: A mobile app with additional features for reporting incidents (e.g., robbery, stalking).
How It Works:
- Immediate Alert: Pressing the bracelet or app button sends an alert with GPS location to campus security and local authorities.
- Incident Reporting: The app prompts users to provide details of the incident, though this is optional.
- Drone Deployment: Drones equipped with cameras are dispatched, providing real-time video feeds to assess the situation.
- Live Tracking & Recording: Drones track perpetrators and record evidence, aiding in criminal apprehension.
SafeGuard Stellies aims to improve safety and reduce crime by enabling swift, tech-enhanced responses to emergencies. With university and community support, it can significantly enhance security in Stellenbosch.
Vushe: ScamAlert
While searching for accommodation in Stellenbosch, Chiedza encountered multiple scammers on online platforms, nearly losing thousands in deposit money. This highlighted the widespread issue of online fraud.
Chiedza's idea is to develop a platform that helps identify scammers, educates the public about scamming tactics, and exposes known fraudsters. Users can report scams, share experiences, and access a database of known scammers, including recycled photos and impersonated profiles. AI would analyze scam patterns and provide real-time assessments to help users avoid fraud.
Initially focused on accommodation scams, the platform could expand to cover other online crimes, like stolen goods in buy-and-sell groups. Users could report stolen items, helping create a safer marketplace.
By empowering users with information and tools, this platform aims to reduce online crime and foster a safer digital community.
Luke van Wyk: Minibus Mat(i)e: Stellenbosch Public Transport, Done Easy!
Accessing Minibus Taxis (MBTs) in Stellenbosch has been difficult due to their informal nature, lack of branding, and limited route information. This has led to increased reliance on private cars, worsening traffic and environmental problems.
This proposal focuses on route branding and a mobile app for route and fare information, improving MBT accessibility without altering core operations. By using route numbers, static maps, and new technologies, it aims to enhance usability.
How It Works:
MBTs will be assigned route numbers displayed via inexpensive magnetic stickers, making it easier for commuters to identify the correct taxi. This flexibility allows operators to adjust routes dynamically, increasing customer numbers and reducing empty trips.
Advanced features such as smart fare collection and real-time tracking will be introduced, encouraging a shift from private cars to MBTs. The app will also integrate with other transport modes like buses and trains, providing commuters with accurate, real-time information. This fosters convenience, safety, and social cohesion between taxi drivers and passengers.
This initiative is based on research in collaboration with a public transport planner, and the findings will be presented at the South African Transport Conference (SATC).
Luke, a Stellenbosch University alumnus with a background in civil engineering, is currently working on large-scale public transit projects, serving on the Young Urbanist Committee as the Urban Mobility & Non-Motorized Transport Lead and he has two published papers at the SATC.
The selected finalists were chosen by a panel of expert judges: Prof Saartjie Grobbelaar and Dr Leslie van Rooi from Stellenbosch University, Marli Goussard of Ranyaka and Sunita Kalan of Council for Scientific and Industrial Research(CSIR).
VOTING CLOSES ON 1 November 2024 at 20:00
To vote for the idea you believe is most viable, scan the following QR Code:
For more information, go to https://www.stellenboschnetwork.co.za/
