Explore, a new joint initiative launched by the Explore Data Science Academy (EDSA) and AlphaCode, aims to plug South Africa’s gap in data science skills.<\/p>\n
The programme, described by its creators, as a ‘mini MBA’ ,\u00a0 will see 20 entrepreneurs go through an intensive six-month data science-training and coaching programme, where they will learn how to design a 10X business (business with exponential growth potential) along with the core digital skills needed to build a fintech organisation.<\/p>\n
This will be followed by three months of intense business training, where their fintech ideas will be reviewed, assessed and refined.<\/p>\n
The programme is offered at no cost to the candidates and includes a stipend to cover major living expenses during the year.<\/p>\n
Ideas that got candidates selected include:<\/p>\n
“The calibre of applicants and their ideas was impressive, demonstrating the depth of talent that exists within South Africans of all backgrounds,” said Shaun Dippnall, co-founder of the Explore Data Science Academy.<\/p>\n
“Each participant is matched with a seasoned fintech entrepreneur as a mentor who will assist them with their business pitch.<\/p>\n
“This is so that the entrepreneurs are given access to the best coaching and mentorship available with a view to their idea being accepted into the AlphaCode Incubate programme, which will offer further support.”<\/p>\n