JSE listed retail clothing group TFG (The Foschini Group) says its financial support for data science master’s students will have far reaching implications for the country.
From water quality and HIV treatment, to mapping the responsiveness of health services, the support by TFG for the students will see them applying their talents to some of the thorniest social challenges of the day.
The TFG Data Science and Leadership Fellowship is making great strides in developing highly qualified specialists to serve the needs of the country and the economy. The fellowship, which funds the first and second years of study towards a MSc in Data Science, one of the country’s most scarce and critical skills, has accepted its third intake of students since it was launched in 2023.
The 12 fellows in this year’s cohort are made up of 6 new students on the fellowship and 6 others who are continuing with their second-year studies towards their master’s degrees at various leading South African universities.
Luyanda Cebekhulu grew up in an orphanage in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, an experience that she says inspired her to put her skills to use in improving healthcare and education. Her MSc research aims to improve healthcare service delivery by predicting the responsiveness of health services through the analysis of Ideal Clinic Indicator Scores.
Ndumiso Ngcobo, also from KwaZulu-Natal, will research a critical area of water quality management impacting public health and the environment by providing data-driven insights for effective water quality management and sustainability.
Meanwhile, Tsholofelo Phasha, from Soweto, Gauteng, will analyse data on HIV patient outcomes to help improve health policy.
Data science is equally critical to the business community, and Khwezi Shusha, from Mpumalanga, will be focusing on the application of data science and predictive analytics in logistics.
In addition to TFG’s annual financial support of over R2-million, the TFG Data Science and Leadership Fellowship provides a comprehensive mentoring and support programme to ensure the success of the beneficiaries. The inaugural intake saw four exceptional candidates complete their master’s degrees, and the second intake has six fellows currently completing their second year of studies.
TFG has hired two of the four graduates from the programme to date, while another is pursuing a post-doctoral degree.
TFG CEO Anthony Thunström said TFG is committed to addressing skills development and youth unemployment in the country.
“The TFG Data Science and Leadership Fellowship is not just about funding education; it’s about empowering individuals to become future leaders in data analytics, driving innovation and positive change in our society,” added Thunström.
The Fellowship is open to all South Africans, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, innovation, creativity, and leadership potential, reflecting TFG’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
