Illuminating the Path of ICT Development: A Spotlight on Dr. Theo Tsokota

Introduction:?

My name is Dr Theo Tsokota and I currently serve as a Senior Lecturer in Information and Marketing Sciences at Midlands State University. My primary areas of research encompass ICT for Development, IT Governance, and E-commerce. I strive to examine how information and communication technologies (ICTs) intersect with development processes, improve the governance of IT systems, and understand the dynamics of electronic commerce.

In addition to my role as a Senior Lecturer, I am an external examiner at both local and regional levels, evaluating and assessing academic programs and research projects in various institutions. I am passionate about harnessing technology to drive positive change, enhance governance practices, and elevate economic activities through electronic commerce. I aim to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the practical application of ICTs for societal development, ensuring the effective and ethical use of information technology.

Background:?

I earned my Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Information Systems with Honors from Midlands State University in Zimbabwe, which laid the groundwork for my understanding of information systems and technology. I pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Management Information Systems at the Maastricht School of Management in the Netherlands. This program enabled me to delve into the managerial aspects of information systems and their strategic use within organizations.

To complement my teaching roles, I obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the Zimbabwe Open University, which equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of educational principles and practices. Further, to nurture my research interests in information technology, I pursued a Ph.D. in Information Technology from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in South Africa. During my Ph.D. studies, I had the privilege of working with Professor Rossouw von Solms and Professor Daralle van Greunen, both of whom have greatly shaped my academic journey.

Career Summary:?

My professional journey commenced in 2005 when I became a Senior Technician at Midlands State University's Media and Society Studies department. This early experience provided me with valuable practical knowledge and skills in media and society, laying the groundwork for my future undertakings.

In August 2007, I moved to the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems as a Teaching Assistant. This transition signified a substantial shift in my career, ushering me into a more engaging role of teaching and supporting students' learning, where I discovered my passion for academia.

Between August 2008 and September 2009, I served as a Staff Development Fellow, which further honed my skills and prepared me for my next role. In September 2010, I transitioned to a Lecturer, a significant milestone in my career. This role allowed me to delve deeper into curriculum development, research, and student mentoring while pursuing my postgraduate studies.

In January 2018, I was promoted to the position of Senior Lecturer, a recognition of my contributions to teaching, research, and the academic community. As a Senior Lecturer, I have embraced leadership roles and engaged in more advanced research projects.

Current Research:?

My research centers on the ICT sector in Zimbabwe, leveraging my extensive knowledge, research experience, and academic proficiency to promote socio-economic development. I am investigating how technology can address various development challenges and improve the quality of life for all people, including an old man selling maize cobs at a bus terminus. The potential impact of technology can transform his business operations, improve efficiency, and ultimately enhance his quality of life.

Impact of Research:?

My work in ICT education has directly contributed to the empowerment of future professionals in the field by imparting relevant knowledge and fostering digital responsibility. As an external examiner in ICT at three Zimbabwean universities, I have maintained high standards in ICT education, preparing students for the digital landscape with competence and awareness.

By presenting at local and regional conferences, I have disseminated my research findings, best practices, and e-safety insights, raising awareness among educators, policymakers, and stakeholders. Furthermore, as a reviewer for several academic journals, I have contributed to the advancement of knowledge in ICT and e-safety, helping researchers refine their work and ensuring research quality and rigor.

Overall, my work has made a lasting impact on e-safety practices in educational institutions. I have advanced the field, influenced policy decisions, and contributed to a safer and more responsible digital environment.

Future Goals:?

My plans for the future center around continuing my research to influence policy in Zimbabwe and beyond. It is crucial to align academic publications with the needs of the community and policy implementation. Thus, I plan to evaluate the impact of ICT interventions on sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and governance. This would involve assessing the effectiveness and sustainability of ICT initiatives, identifying best practices, and providing evidence-based recommendations for policy implementation and resource allocation. I aim to generate knowledge that directly addresses the needs of the Zimbabwean community. Through collaborations, I aspire to contribute to the development of policies that maximize the potential of ICTs for everyone's benefit. My ongoing research question is, "How can the full potential of ICTs be exploited for the benefit of communities around me?"

Personal Perspective:?

In Zimbabwe and Africa, the field of ICT has seen significant progress, especially in infrastructure development and increased access to digital technologies. Mobile phones and growing internet penetration have revolutionized communication and connectivity across the continent. ICT has also been pivotal in e-commerce, e-learning, and e-governance, thus stimulating economic growth, improving access to education, and enhancing service delivery.

However, a considerable portion of ICT usage in Zimbabwe and Africa is still geared towards social purposes, like social media and entertainment. To fully exploit the potential of ICTs, there's a need to shift towards monetizing these technologies, involving innovative business models, entrepreneurship, and leveraging ICTs for economic development.

What excites me about my work is the potential to impact individuals' lives and contribute to the development of a digitally inclusive society. Empowering students, educators, and communities with knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape safely and responsibly is fulfilling. But, as with any role, there are challenges. One of the main challenges is ensuring the safe use of ICTs, given the rapid advancements in technology and emerging risks. Limited resources and infrastructure constraints can also pose challenges in implementing ICT initiatives, particularly in underserved areas.

Advice for Young Researchers:?

For those interested in pursuing a similar career path as mine, it's important to remember that hard work and commitment are key to success. Strive to align your work with the needs of the community and broader policy implementation, and always aim to create a tangible impact through your research. In spite of the challenges, the potential to contribute to socio-economic development in your region should remain your motivating factor.