09/10/2026
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The Department of Business Management in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences hosted the 37th Annual Conference of the Southern African Institute for Management Scientists (SAIMS) from 27โ30 September 2026.
This yearโs conference explored the thought-provoking theme, "Co-existing with Intelligence: Rethinking Management in the Age of AI."
Established in 1988, SAIMS provides a platform for academics, researchers, students, and industry professionals to exchange knowledge, challenge existing thinking, and advance the management sciences.
Over three days, delegates explored an important question: In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, what does it mean to be an effective human leader and manager?
From AI and digital transformation to entrepreneurship, marketing, human resource management, finance, governance, tourism, and management education, the conference brought together diverse perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping organizations and society.
The conference featured two thought-provoking keynotes: UFS alumnus ๐๐ซ ๐๐ง๐๐ซ๐๐ฐ ๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ก explored collaboration between human and artificial intelligence in organisations, while technology entrepreneur and Flood CEO ๐๐ง๐๐ซรฉ ๐๐ ๐๐๐ญ, who also previously studied at UFS, shared a practical perspective on digital transformation and management in the age of AI.
The conference also created valuable opportunities for students and emerging researchers to present their work, engage with established scholars, receive feedback and build meaningful academic networks.
One message resonated throughout the conference: AI may transform the way we work, but it does not diminish the value of being human. In an increasingly AI-enabled world, qualities such as critical thinking, creativity, empathy, ethical responsibility, and sound judgment remain essential.
The future of management is not simply about choosing between human and artificial intelligence. It is about learning how the two can work together to create better organizations, better decisions, and a better future.
