Smart metering solutions provider Conlog has partnered with Wits University's Tshimologong Precinct to launch Reapele, a programme aimed at helping participants develop blockchain-based smart city solutions.

Headquartered in Johannesburg, Conlog provides metering solutions to utilities, municipalities and property management companies in SA, South America, the Middle East and Africa.

Reapele, hosted and run by the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct in Braamfontein, aims to nurture technology start-ups by helping participants to turn their digital products and ideas into viable businesses.

The competition is open to all coders who have C++, C#, Java, Javascript or Python skills.

"We are excited to launch this new project, which will assist in developing Conlog's open innovation capability in smart connected metering technology," says Kendal Makgamathe, head of marketing, Tshimologong Precinct.

"The programme will enhance Conlog's business transformation journey by forging technical advisory partnerships with Wits University faculties and its research students."

The first phase of the programme calls for aspiring junior software developers and technologists to participate in a meet-up event, following which an online assessment will be run to identify the top performers using custom coding assessments such as Java, JavaScript, C++, Python or C#.

Once the successful candidates have been identified, they will be trained on the core principles and foundations of coding, using blockchain.

Subsequent to the coaching, the candidates will use their new coding skills in a three-day hackathon, aimed at challenging the candidates to develop a blockchain proof-of-concept, in partnership with blockchain hub BlockStarters.

The hackathon will provide an opportunity for top technologists to win R20 000, together with a Design Sprint, a five-day intensive design thinking programme that enables candidates to demonstrate their new technology with real customers.

Furthermore, Reapele offers an intensive incubation period for the incumbent software developers that have previously developed an existing blockchain solution.

Limited to a set number of individuals, the incubation will provide a platform for the proof of concept to be developed further, culminating in live demonstrations of the blockchain technology to potential clients.

The incubation will also assist in developing a validated marketing plan and a tried and tested business model.

"We are extremely motivated by the formation of the Reapele programme and look forward to working with Tshimologong Precinct to develop tomorrow's future blockchain experts," says Lance Hawkins-Dady, head of engineering at Conlog.

To apply, visit http://tshimologong.joburg/conlog/