Teaching

Our Focus on the Next Generation

We address the scarcity of skills in the fintech industry by training the next generation of students and innovators. Through blockchain workshops, online courses, and opportunities for collaboration, we aim to nurture a mindset shift amongst students, encouraging them to become creators of job opportunities rather than job seekers. This educational element also creates a talent pool that financial services companies can tap into, accessing the expertise and fresh perspectives of our students, faculty members, researchers, and other stakeholders.

2022 in Numbers

In 2022, with respect to programmes and degrees affiliated with the University of Cape Town which includes the MPhil in Financial Technology, PhD and Postdoctoral research fellowship programmes, we have distributed:

R2,957,600

Of Funding Amongst

13

1

2

Masters Students

PhD Student

Postdoctoral Research Fellows

Thanks to the generosity of our three donors

Source: FinHub 2022 Annual Report

MPhil in Financial Technology

The Master of Philosophy specialising in Financial Technology is an interdisciplinary degree convened by the School of Economics in close collaboration with the UCT Department of Statistics. This is the only dedicated Fintech Master’s program in Africa. The program started in 2018 by Prof. Co-Pierre Georg and is currently convened by Dr. Allan Davids. It continues to be one of the most selective programs UCT offers with admissions rates usually ranging between 5-10%.

The core idea of the degree is to teach students hard (coding) skills in order to empower them to start their own company or make a meaningful impact in the financial services industry. Graduates from the program have gone on to start their own companies (e.g. FoodPrint, Mandla Money, Wildcards, Axone), join fintech startups (e.g. UMA, LUNO), and entering industries such as financial services (e.g. Standard Bank, RMB, Investec) or management consulting (e.g. Bain & Co, BCG, Eighty20).

Learn more OO

MOOCs

Coursera

In his role as academic director, Professor Georg offers 3 Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) which form part of the Fintech Startups in Emerging Markets SpecialisationOO
How Entrepreneurs in emerging markets can master blockchain technology
Blockchain is revolutionising how businesses operate, and entrepreneurs in emerging markets can benefit greatly from this knowledge. This course will provide a comprehensive understanding of the technology and how it can be leveraged for success. Learn more OO
Building Fintech Startups in Emerging Markets
Fintech startups are shaping the future of finance, and entrepreneurs in emerging markets have a unique opportunity to impact their communities. This course will provide a roadmap for building successful fintech startups and connecting with the right partners and investors. Learn more OO
Financial Regulation in Emerging markets
Financial regulation is more important than ever with increasing globalisation and digitalisation. This course will provide an in-depth understanding of financial regulation in emerging markets. Learn more OO

Industry Focused Short Courses

The Hub, through UCT, offers 2 Industry Focused Short Courses:
Blockchain and Digital Currency: The Future of Money 
Gain an in-depth understanding of crypto assets and harness the potential they offer. Learn more OO
Fintech: Disruption in Finance
Equip yourself for the future of finance with an understanding of today’s most important fintech innovations, and learn to fund your own disruptive business idea. Learn more OO

GetSmarter

Workshops