From artificial intelligence (AI) to digital project delivery, emerging technologies are changing how southern Africa plans, builds and manages its infrastructure. On 21 October 2026, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) showcased these innovations at the Digital Built Environment Technology Showcase & Awards (DiBETSA) 2026, highlighting solutions that could help shape the future of the region’s construction and infrastructure industries.
Presented by UJ’s Centre for Applied Research and Innovation in the Built Environment (CARINBE), in partnership with the South African Institution of Civil Engineering’s Project Management and Construction Division (SAICE PMCD), DiBETSA brought together built environment professionals, government and municipal stakeholders, technology providers and researchers to explore digital innovation and solutions for infrastructure planning, delivery and management.
The free, CPD-accredited Technology Showcase and Exhibition featured digital technology demonstrations, expert presentations and discussions on innovation across the built environment.
Over 300 delegates gathered at the event, with an Awards Gala Dinner taking place that evening to celebrate the innovators who are developing solutions for the future Built Environment.
The programme featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, project showcases and demonstrations involving Oracle, Bentley, Autodesk, Leica, IDECO and the Industrial Digital Twin – among 18 other technology providers, all highlighting innovation that can support infrastructure planning, digital project delivery and improved asset management.
“Digital innovation is creating new opportunities to improve how infrastructure is planned, delivered and managed. DiBETSA connects industry, government and academia to explore practical solutions for South Africa’s built environment,” says Professor Innocent Musonda, Director of CARINBE, University of Johannesburg.
The awards recognised excellence in four categories: Artificial Intelligence in the Built Environment; Digital Project Delivery; Energy Performance Optimisation; and Capacity Development & Technology Adoption.
DiBETSA 2026 was supported by several organisations committed to advancing innovation across the built environment. Oracle was the headline sponsor, joined by DBSA, Autodesk, SACPCMP, Gentec, IDECO, FEM, PMI and AvenirHoldings, alongside professional and industry partners from across the sector
