Social capital in the age of AI

This presentation explores a bolstered role for tertiary educators in the accrual of students’ social capital (SC) in today’s digital world. This talk underscores the importance of a fresh lens to support the development of valuable SC accrual for the next generation of leaders. The roles of bridging and bonding ties are reassessed for students’ needs, as well as the many alternatives available to teachers, ensuring pedagogy that supports both the academic and future social needs of students. With SC considered to be the resources and benefits available, students need to be primed in terms of recognising potential resources and exhibiting the necessary agency to acquire them. This emphasises the crucial role that SC plays in providing access to resources and opportunities, as well as building the required resilience and collaborative traits required. In addition to documented and published methods, Sid will share emerging methods that have emanated from Africa’s highest ranked creative business school, where he is tenured.

About the presenter:

Sidney Peimer is a lecturer at the Red & Yellow Creative School of Business, where he teaches Marketing Strategy and Research to BA and BCom undergrads. He is also the programme manager of the honours-level Creative Leadership course. Red & Yellow is the number one ranked creative business school in Africa through their unique methodology of combining creative magic with commercial logic. Sid has a wealth of experience across sectors such as civil society, ICT, education, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, government, and marketing. Qualified as a pharmacist, and with an MBA from the University of Cape Town, Sid combines analytical thinking with creative problem-solving to help organizations develop fresh , implementable and effective strategies. His career includes serving as CEO of the Cape Chamber of Commerce & Industry for seven years, where he played a key role in contemporising the 200-year-old institution. Sid has provided strategic communication services to companies like SABMiller, FedEx, Nestlé, Liberty, Mr Delivery and Netcare, amongst others. Currently pursuing a PhD in marketing (the prospective marketing orientation of students) with social capital as the independent variable, Sid is dedicated to exploring how relationships and networks can contribute to a better life for young people. Known for his engaging and practical approach, Sid brings a blend of insight and creativity to his presentations, making complex concepts accessible, actionable and enjoyable. He is the Paarl 1972 Coca-Cola Yo-Yo Champion (for the record).