A 60-minute WhatsApp exchange with an internet service provider, only four questions and no suitable product offered is not a customer-service win. It is an argument for a properly trained AI solution. Keith Levenstein, CEO of ET Artificial Intelligence Systems, says an ISP client needed 100GB of data for a short period every third month. The customer called their ISP-advertised WhatsApp service line which offered a live call center chat with a person rather than using AI. “What followed was firstly, a wait to speak with someone, then the call center agent not understanding what was needed, and then an offer of a standard 24-month contract. The customer then had to explain that a monthly contract was not cost-effective because the data would only be used every third month. Then the customer was offered a 10GB package. The customer then had to repeat that 100GB was needed. Overall, the ‘human’ WhatsApp service failed dismally,” says Levenstein. “The ISP did not have the product. But that was not the main issue. The issue was that an AI system properly trained and monitored would have analysed the requirements and in seconds would have offered a solution or responded that a suitable product did not exist, rather than waste the customer’s time and misunderstand the customer’s requirements,” Levenstein notes. “An AI system would have been more empathetic. It would properly noted the requitements and not offered a 10GB instead of the 100GB needed. AI would not have offered a contract if the data was going to used only every third month. It would not have needed to apologise that all the consultants were busy and would not have taken 60 minutes to handle the conversation.” “Only four questions were asked in total. A properly trained AI agent would have answered each question within about 15 seconds and the entire exchange would have taken two minutes, not 60. “An AI system that is properly working, trained and monitored would significantly save costs …
Month-End Reporting Moves to the Dark Ages
Organisations need real-time alerts and answers — even on WhatsApp Keith Levenstein, MD of ET Artificial Intelligence Systems, says CEOs no longer have to fly blind between reporting cycles Most organisations generally have a mountain of data at hand such as staff records, customer lists, sales, expenses, emails, complaints, stock levels and supplier details, but analysed only monthly, quarterly or annually. By then, minor issues that should have been addressed timeously could have been prevented if alerted earlier. Delays are no longer necessary, according to Keith Levenstein, Managing Director of Johannesburg-based ET Artificial Intelligence Systems. “The data reported on at the end of a reporting cycle is most likely outdated and if a problem is highlighted it should have been acted on much earlier.” “Exco and Board meetings do generally look at outdated management reports which provide historical and not current data, as of today. Real-time alerts could even turn a monthly or quarterly loss into a profit. “Why not immediately cross-check diesel expenses against new drivers? Mileage travelled against truck loads? Staff turnover against new customers? Track the traffic to the organisation’s website this week compared with last month? Where is the majority of traffic going to on the website. Where are visitors falling off the website? Ask in plain English, get answers Once an AI model is set up and has secure access to a company’s data, a CEO can simply speak or type everyday questions into WhatsApp for example: “Give me a graph of sales over the past six months compared to staff turnover.” “Which branch sales are down and in which regions?” “Compare profits to diesel prices.” “Show tyre-damage costs by driver and by region.” “Has our VoIP system actually saved money — and are there complaints about it?” “Customer support queries versus Google reviews.” “The answers appear instantly on a screen, tablet or phone, even via …
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Businesses Urged to Secure their New WhatsApp Username Now
With WhatsApp rolling out usernames, WhatsApp users, and specifically businesses, are being urged to urgently reserve their own customised WhatsApp number. This is done in a similar manner to creating a unique website domain. While this feature is not yet available in South Africa, it is currently being tested on different platforms. “A WhatsApp unique username will protect business brands or a person’s identification. Delaying could lead to lost opportunities, brand dilution and even attempts at extortion by name squatters, similar to the early days of website creation when well-known companies had their names registered as domains by third parties,” says Keith Levenstein, MD of ET Artificial Intelligence Systems. “WhatsApp is now prompting users to reserve a unique username in the format of @yourbusinessname. The identifier handle is expected to become as vital as your email address or website domain. Usernames are not case sensitive and cannot contain spaces, making it critical for companies to claim clean, professional handles such as @YourCompanyName right away. “Millions of names are being snapped up as we speak, and hopefully not with the intention of selling them back to businesses later at a premium, similar to a website domain name. You do not want to be left with something generic like @YourBusinessName6783434234.” Business Benefits of Adopting WhatsApp Usernames Levenstein notes that business accounts stand to benefit significantly from the new feature. Adopting custom handles provides improved discoverability and strong branding opportunities. It enables companies to maintain consistent identity across platforms by importing existing Instagram or Facebook usernames via Meta’s Accounts Center. Some premium handles are reserved specifically for verified businesses, government bodies and public figures. WhatsApp has also introduced a new Business Scoped User ID (BSUID) system to support backend compatibility for business tools and …
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Sangari Appointed Distributor of Interplay Skillmill Job-Ready Skill Training
Sangari South Africa has been appointed an official distributor of Interplay Learning’s SkillMill, an immersive skilled trades training solution. “The partnership brings Interplay’s always-on immersive training platform, featuring expert-led video lessons, hands-on 3D simulations and VR experiences to educational institutions, workforce development organisations and businesses across South Africa,” explained Dr Darius Sangari, Director of Sangari South Africa. He said that SkillMill, now part of the Interplay Career Development Platform, enables learners to develop practical, job-ready skills in essential trades such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, solar, facilities maintenance and more. “The platform offers over 450 hours of content with progressive learning paths suitable for beginners through to advanced technicians. Learners benefit from interactive 3D simulations that replicate real-world scenarios, allowing them to practice safely before working on actual equipment. “The accompanying platform includes on-demand assessments, knowledge checks, personalised learning paths, and progress tracking tools. These features support the development of critical troubleshooting, problem-solving, and technical competencies while preparing students and workers for industry certifications. “SkillMill’s flexible, device-agnostic design makes training accessible anytime, anywhere, helping to bridge the skills gap in South Africa’s growing technical and vocational sectors.” Dr Sangari noted that educators and training providers using Interplay solutions report significantly faster skill acquisition, higher learner engagement, and improved outcomes compared to traditional methods. “The immersive, project-based approach moves beyond theory, allowing students to apply concepts in realistic environments. This builds confidence, reduces risk, and equips learners with the 21st-century skills needed for a technology-driven economy.” He added: “Interplay’s SkillMill …
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Sangari Education Appointed Reseller of Engino STEM Education Solutions
Sangari South Africa has been appointed an official reseller of Engino, a STEM and robotics education system designed for schools. “The partnership brings Engino’s modular building kits, robotic controllers, curriculum resources and specialised software to primary and secondary schools across South Africa. Engino solutions target learners from late primary through secondary levels, with particular relevance for schools seeking to strengthen practical STEM skills in preparation for further education and the workforce,” explained Dr Darius Sangari, Director of Sangari South Africa. He said that Engino enables students to build and program working models using snap-fit components that support mechanical, structural and electronic constructions. Its robotic controllers, including the PRODUINO and ERP series, offer multiple input-output ports, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and support both block-based and text-based programming. This allows progressive learning from basic motor control to advanced sensor integration and autonomous operation. The accompanying software suite includes KEIRO for coding, 3D builder tools for CAD skills, and simulation environments that let students test designs virtually before physical construction. These tools help develop computational thinking, problem-solving and engineering design processes. Engino also features the STEM Score system, which classifies activities by learning level and complexity to help educators match resources to students’ developmental stages. Dr Sangari noted that educators using Engino report that the hands-on, project-based approach improves student engagement with STEM concepts, supports curriculum delivery in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and builds critical 21st-century skills such as collaboration, creativity, and systematic thinking. “The solutions are designed for classroom implementation, with structured lesson plans and storage systems suitable for group work.” Dr …
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Businesses Urged to Reserve their New WhatsApp Username Now
With WhatsApp rolling out usernames, WhatsApp users, and specifically businesses, are being urged to urgently reserve their own customised WhatsApp number. This is done in a similar manner to creating a unique website domain. While this feature is not yet available in South Africa, it is currently being tested on different platforms. “A WhatsApp unique username will protect business brands or a person’s identification. Delaying could lead to lost opportunities, brand dilution and even attempts at extortion by name squatters, similar to the early days of website creation when well-known companies had their names registered as domains by third parties,” says Keith Levenstein, MD of ET Artificial Intelligence Systems. “WhatsApp is now prompting users to reserve a unique username in the format of @yourbusinessname. The identifier handle is expected to become as vital as your email address or website domain. Usernames are not case sensitive and cannot contain spaces, making it critical for companies to claim clean, professional handles such as @YourCompanyName right away. “Millions of names are being snapped up as we speak, and hopefully not with the intention of selling them back to businesses later at a premium, similar to a website domain name. You do not want to be left with something generic like @YourBusinessName6783434234.” Business Benefits of Adopting WhatsApp Usernames Levenstein notes that business accounts stand to benefit significantly from the new feature. Adopting custom handles provides improved discoverability and strong branding opportunities. It enables companies to maintain consistent identity across platforms by importing existing Instagram or Facebook usernames via Meta’s Accounts Center. Some premium handles are reserved specifically for verified businesses, government bodies and public figures. WhatsApp has also introduced a new Business Scoped User ID (BSUID) system to support backend compatibility for business tools and …
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SOEW Achieves SABPP Certification, Reinforcing Commitment to Excellence in People Practices
South Ocean Electric Wire Company (SOEW), a manufacturer of low-voltage electrical cables and a wholly owned subsidiary of JSE-listed South Ocean Holdings, has received the formal handover of its SA Board for People Practices (SABPP) certification. SABPP is South Africa’s professional body for human resource management. The certification process involves an independent audit against the national People Practices and Governance Standards. Certification is valid for three years, subject to ongoing compliance and review. “SOEW’s achievement aligns with its broader focus on quality, safety, environmental responsibility and skills development. The company continues to invest in modern manufacturing, laboratory testing capabilities, and sustainable practices while prioritising local content and employment,” said Andre Smith, CEO of SOEW. “The certification recognises SOEW’s adherence to national standards for people practices and human resource management and certifies the company’s ongoing investment in professional HR systems, continuous improvement and high standards of workplace practice.” Dr Kgomotso Mopalami, Head: Professional Solutions and Business at SABPP, described the certification as a significant achievement for SOEW and applauded the company for its commitment. She noted that the SABPP audit is a developmental exercise that evaluates HR processes against thirteen key elements. For certification, organisations must achieve more than 60% in each element and an overall average above 60%. SOEW performed particularly well in Governance and Compliance, as well as Employee Relationship Management. Dr Mopalami emphasised the importance of HR adherence to SABPP principles and highlighted that strong people practices can help insulate organisations from economic downturns. She also stressed the broader need for South Africa to ensure governance standards remain aligned with global best practice, noting that government adherence to the King Code 5 …
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SOEW Achieves SABPP Certification, Reinforcing Commitment in People Practices
South Ocean Electric Wire Company (SOEW), a manufacturer of low-voltage electrical cables and a wholly owned subsidiary of JSE-listed South Ocean Holdings, has received the formal handover of its SA Board for People Practices (SABPP) certification. SABPP is South Africa’s professional body for human resource management. The certification process involves an independent audit against the national People Practices and Governance Standards. Certification is valid for three years, subject to ongoing compliance and review. “SOEW’s achievement aligns with its broader focus on quality, safety, environmental responsibility and skills development. The company continues to invest in modern manufacturing, laboratory testing capabilities, and sustainable practices while prioritising local content and employment,” said Andre Smith, CEO of SOEW. “The certification recognises SOEW’s adherence to national standards for people practices and human resource management and certifies the company’s ongoing investment in professional HR systems, continuous improvement and high standards of workplace practice.” Dr Kgomotso Mopalami, Head: Professional Solutions and Business at SABPP, described the certification as a significant achievement for SOEW and applauded the company for its commitment. She noted that the SABPP audit is a developmental exercise that evaluates HR processes against thirteen key elements. For certification, organisations must achieve more than 60% in each element and an overall average above 60%. SOEW performed particularly well in Governance and Compliance, as well as Employee Relationship Management. Dr Mopalami emphasised the importance of HR adherence to SABPP principles and highlighted that strong people practices can help insulate organisations from economic downturns. She also stressed the broader need for South Africa to ensure governance standards remain aligned with global best practice, noting that government adherence to the King Code 5 …
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How Businesses Can Benefit From YES
For many companies, transformation requirements such as B-BBEE compliance are still seen as an administrative burden. The Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative challenges that perception by offering more than compliance: it provides a practical, cost-efficient tool for business growth and flexibility. In the BEE Chamber’s experience, when implemented correctly, YES can deliver up to a two-level boost on a company’s B-BBEE scorecard. But the true value lies in the way it gives companies a structured, low-risk pathway to build talent and achieve compliance simultaneously. At its essence, YES allows organisations to place unemployed youth into 12-month work experience programmes. This provides businesses with something no other compliance element offers: the opportunity to observe candidates in a real working environment for an extended period, without contractual risk. Year-long assessment Unlike traditional hiring, where a three-month probation often becomes a permanent contract, making it difficult and costly to release underperformers, YES participants can be assessed for a full year. At the end of the programme, businesses can select the best candidates to absorb into permanent roles, while letting go of those who do not meet expectations. In this way, YES becomes a 12-month “test run” for future talent, offering a degree of flexibility and risk mitigation that standard recruitment cannot. The compliance advantage is just as compelling. For companies sitting at Level 8 or Level 7, YES can be a cost-effective way to move up the scorecard compared to traditional elements like enterprise and supplier development, bursaries, or socio-economic development. For example, bridging the gap between Level 8 and Level 6 can mean securing around 20 points. Achieving those points through multiple fragmented interventions often requires significant spend. Yes, by contrast, consolidates the effort into a single initiative at a lower cost, offering a …
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NAACAM-ILO Study Calls for Urgent Action to Secure Jobs and Competitiveness
South Africa's transition to new energy vehicles (NEVs) presents one of the most significant industrial shifts facing the country's automotive sector in decades. Whether that transition results in industrial growth or manufacturing decline will depend on the policy choices and investments made today. To support informed decision-making, the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM), in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has launched a new research study examining the employment impacts of South Africa's transition from Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEVs) to New Energy Vehicles (NEVs). The study provides a practical roadmap for industry, government and labour to manage the transition while strengthening the competitiveness of South Africa's automotive component manufacturing sector. The research highlights both the risks and opportunities facing the industry. Under a severe transition scenario, South Africa's shift to New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) could place an estimated 8,200 direct jobs at risk between 2025 and 2035. At the same time, the study finds that with the right industrial policies and investment incentives, South Africa has the potential to create approximately 3,370 direct jobs through the localisation of selected new energy vehicle components, including High Voltage Wire Harnesses, Thermal Management Systems and Hydrogen Fuel Cells. The study also highlights the importance of preparing the workforce for the technologies that will shape the next generation of vehicle manufacturing. While many skills currently used in ICEV component production remain relevant, they will increasingly need to be complemented by capabilities in robotics, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, green production techniques and specialised NEV technologies. The research concludes that South Africa's skills development ecosystem remains at a basic level of readiness and requires significant …