Public Service Pension Fund (PSPF) CEO, Masotja Vilakati, has underscored the significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in strategic leadership. He was speaking at the Talent Management and AI Masterclass held at Mountain View, Mbabane on 1-2 August 2024.
With around 40 talent managers and practitioners from local corporates and South Africa in attendance, the masterclass, sponsored by the PSPF with E15,000 and organized by Stratcom Media in partnership with IPM Eswatini, aimed to equip HR professionals with the skills and knowledge to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
In his opening remarks, Vilakati, highlighted the significance of AI in today’s strategic leadership:
“We are excited to partner with Stratcom Media for this masterclass, which provides valuable insights into Human Capital Management in the Digital Age,” he said. “This partnership highlights our dedication to supporting initiatives that foster professional growth and future readiness. AI has become an indispensable tool for strategic leaders, and it can drive innovation, efficiency, and strategic advantage when used effectively and ethically by informed leaders.”
The Talent Management and AI Masterclass, featured futurist, Dr. Roze Phillips from Abundance at Work. Dr. Phillips’ presentation on “Human Capital Management in the Age of AI” captivated our audience, offering profound insights and actionable strategies.
Her presentation focussed on:

• Managing Human Potential: Shifting focus from traditional HR to Human Capital Management.
• AI in Performance Management: Leveraging AI for real-time feedback and personalized development plans.
• Ethical Implications of AI: Ensuring transparency and accountability in AI usage.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Enhancing strategies through data-driven insights.
• Future-Proofing Organizations: Fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability.

The first day of the masterclass focussed on Talent Management with presentations from esteemed speakers:
Dolly Nqonji from Massmart Group, South Africa, presented on “Realities and Challenges of Talent Management: A Case for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.”
Sharon Dlamini-Magagula from the Central Bank of Eswatini discussed “AI in Enhancing the Capabilities of Human-like Robots.”