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Machine Learning

Machine learning is a branch of artificial intelligence that enables computer systems to learn from data and improve their performance on specific tasks without being explicitly programmed for each scenario. The technology works by using algorithms that identify patterns in large datasets, build mathematical models from those patterns, and apply the learned knowledge to make predictions or decisions on new, unseen data. Machine learning applications span numerous sectors, including banking, where it powers fraud detection and credit risk assessment; mining, where it optimises resource extraction and predictive maintenance; and agriculture, where it supports precision farming and crop yield forecasting. The technology has become increasingly significant as organisations seek to extract actionable insights from growing volumes of data and automate complex decision-making processes. Machine learning approaches fall into several categories, including supervised learning, where models learn from labelled training data; unsupervised learning, which finds hidden patterns in unlabelled data; and reinforcement learning, where systems learn through trial and error. Adoption has accelerated across South African industries, with major banks, revenue authorities and technology firms deploying machine learning solutions to enhance operational efficiency and customer service. The field requires specialised skills in mathematics, statistics and programming, driving demand for data science expertise and skills development programmes. Machine learning has evolved rapidly since the mid-twentieth century, gaining commercial traction in the 1990s and experiencing explosive growth in the twenty-first century as computing power, data availability and algorithmic sophistication have converged.

Machine Learning News


Africa on the edge of a digital future
Africa on the edge of a digital future
27th May 2026

By Steven Santini, Vice President for Secure Power, SSA at Schneider Electric The advantages of edge computing are well-documented, clear and tangible.  Many industries today benefit from its... 


Understanding What BPM Really Means in Today’s Tech Landscape
Understanding What BPM Really Means in Today’s Tech Landscape
30th April 2026

If you’ve been exploring ways to improve efficiency, automate workflows, or bring more structure to operations, you’ve probably come across the term what is bpm. Short for Business Process... 


Magazine Cover image
Greater AI fluency in tandem with expert skills foundational for effective deployment
17th April 2026 By: Schalk Burger

While artificial intelligence (AI) systems require information technology (IT) and data science skills to deploy, they also demand industry-specific expertise to ensure their effective integration... 


The above image depicts one of Komatsu's ADTs
Software, autonomy partnership to drive truck modernisation
10th April 2026 By: Lynne Davies

Detailed in a statement in September 2025, a strategic technology collaboration between vehicle intelligence company Applied Intuition and heavy equipment manufacturer Komatsu South Africa is... 


Edge I/O NTS and the need for (industrial) speed
Edge I/O NTS and the need for (industrial) speed
19th March 2026

By: Hennie Smith - Solution Architect, Industry Automation at Schneider Electric  Industrial automation is undoubtedly one of the most exciting solution frameworks and work methodologies in this... 


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Technology central to overcoming mining’s growth constraints
13th March 2026 By: Lumkile Nkomfe

Given the increasing depths and complexity of orebodies, high and volatile energy costs, logistics bottlenecks and growing demand for safer and sustainable operations, the adoption of digital... 


Magazine cover image
Technology central to overcoming mining’s growth constraints
13th March 2026 By: Lumkile Nkomfe

Given the increasing depths and complexity of orebodies, high and volatile energy costs, logistics bottlenecks and growing demand for safer and sustainable operations, the adoption of digital... 


Bread production facility
Optimisation ensures power savings for producers
13th March 2026 By: Marleny Arnoldi

A holistic and optimised system of energy efficient motors, variable-speed drives and software packages can achieve up to 40% electricity savings and significantly lower total cost of ownership for... 


The next wave of AI-driven process automation in 2026
The next wave of AI-driven process automation in 2026
4th March 2026

By: Kobus Vermeulen - Direct Sales Executive, Process Automation at Schneider Electric  As process industries hurtle toward an AI-driven future, four powerful trends are set to redefine automation... 


Schneider Electric's new open, software‑defined distributed control system
Advancing industrial operations with open, software‑defined automation
27th February 2026

Global energy technology company Schneider Electric has unveiled its EcoStruxure Foxboro software defined automation (SDA) platform, said to be the industry’s first open, software‑defined... 


 ‘Deep collaboration’ needed for the deployment of new mining technologies
‘Deep collaboration’ needed for the deployment of new mining technologies
26th February 2026 By: Sabrina Jardim

As mining companies face increasing pressure to deliver measurable improvements in productivity and safety, while also managing the cost, complexity and risks associated with adopting new... 


A general image of an aeroplane and a port terminal
Company boosts air capacity, automation to counter constraints
13th February 2026 By: Lumkile Nkomfe

Despite continued pressure on South Africa’s logistics network, FedEx Sub-Saharan Africa is managing cross-border risks through detailed line-haul planning, ensuring vehicles are appropriately... 


AI drives changes in SA IT skills needs
27th January 2026

The widespread adoption of Artificial Intelligence is driving rapid change in the IT job market and the skills needed within the IT space. This is according to top Institute of Information... 


Glenn Kerhoff global industry principal for mining, metals and minerals at AVEVA, smiling
Data is the new currency of industry progress
16th January 2026

By Glenn Kerkhoff Data has become the backbone of modern industrial performance because it enables continuous optimisation, advanced automation and resilient decision-making. In mining, the growth... 


Today’s advanced safety system is but the beginning
Today’s advanced safety system is but the beginning
9th December 2025

By: Kobus Vermeulen - Direct Sales Executive, Process Automation at Schneider Electric Industrial safety systems have certainly come a long way since the days of hardwired emergency shutdowns. What... 


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