2026 UCT–Cortex Hub Fintech Lab Winter School
Dates: 22 June – 5 July 2026 | Hackathon: 6 – 10 July 2026 | Location: The Cortex Hub, East London | Format: Hybrid (in-person + online)
The 2026 Winter School (22 Jun – 5 Jul) and Hackathon (6 – 10 Jul) equip students and entrepreneurs with hands-on skills in fintech, open banking, data science, and innovation.
About the Programme
The UCT–Cortex Hub Fintech Lab Winter School is a two-week intensive training programme designed to equip university students and young entrepreneurs with hands-on skills in open banking, fintech, and digital innovation.
Delivered in partnership between the University of Cape Town's Financial Innovation Hub (FinHub) and The Cortex Hub, the Winter School forms part of a multi-year initiative to position the Eastern Cape as a centre of excellence for fintech education and innovation.
Participants will gain exposure to real-world fintech technologies, industry mentors, and research-driven innovation frameworks that bridge academic theory with market application.
What the Winter School Offers
📘 Two-Week Hybrid Boot Camp
22 June – 5 July 2026 | The Cortex Hub & Online
Daily expert-led lectures and workshops on Open Banking, Full-Stack Development, Data Science, and Blockchain Applications.
Delivered by facilitators from the UCT Financial Innovation Hub and The Cortex Hub.
Practical, project-based learning combining coding, financial analysis, and design thinking.
💻 One-Week Physical Hackathon
6 – 10 July 2026 | The Cortex Hub, East London
Work in multidisciplinary teams to apply new skills to real-world fintech challenges.
Receive guidance from technical and business mentors.
Final presentations and awards on 10 July 2026.
Eligibility
Eligibility
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
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Second-year or higher students enrolled at Walter Sisulu University or the University of Fort Hare for 2026 (proof of registration or transcripts required). Preference will be given to applicants from Walter Sisulu University and the University of Fort Hare.
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Recent graduates (2023–2025) of Walter Sisulu University or the University of Fort Hare (proof of academic transcripts required).
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Alumni of either university (proof of graduation certificate and/or transcripts required).
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Students from other South African universities are welcome to apply. Please note that places are limited and preference will be given to WSU and Fort Hare applicants.
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Cortex Hub entrepreneurs are also eligible to participate in both the Winter School and Hackathon.