In the vibrant South African house music scene, the musical duo Jazzworx and Thukuthela, comprised of Kamohelo Monese and Kgotso Dube, is making waves not only with their infectious beats but also through their innovative use of technology to mentor aspiring artists. On June 17, 2025, the duo announced a partnership with UJ Digital, the University of Johannesburg’s transformative digital learning platform, to offer mentorship programs for young musicians. This initiative highlights how technology is reshaping music education and fostering the next generation of South African talent.
Jazzworx and Thukuthela have rapidly risen to prominence in the house music scene, known for their soulful remixes and high-energy performances. Their decision to collaborate with UJ Digital, launched in 2025 to make higher education more accessible, reflects a commitment to giving back to their community. The platform, which offers online courses and resources, enables the duo to conduct virtual masterclasses on music production, DJing, and songwriting. These sessions are designed to reach young artists in underserved areas, where access to professional mentorship is often limited.
The use of digital platforms like UJ Digital is revolutionizing music education in South Africa. Unlike traditional mentorship models, which require physical presence, online platforms allow for scalable, cost-effective training. Jazzworx and Thukuthela’s program includes tutorials on using DAWs like Ableton Live, as well as guidance on navigating the digital music industry, from streaming royalties to social media marketing. The duo has also incorporated AI-driven tools, such as vocal tuning software and beat-matching algorithms, into their curriculum, equipping students with cutting-edge skills.
The initiative aligns with broader trends in South Africa’s digital landscape. The 2025 Reuters Institute Digital News Report noted a strong interest in accessible, interactive formats for content delivery, a principle that extends to education. By leveraging UJ Digital’s infrastructure, Jazzworx and Thukuthela are making music education more inclusive, particularly for youth in rural areas. This effort echoes the launch of UJ’s Peer-to-Peer Youth Mentorship anthology on May 30, 2025, which celebrated student voices and leadership, a cause the duo supports.
The duo’s mentorship program has already garnered praise from industry figures. Beth Arendse, the new CEO of Business and Arts South Africa (BASA), called it a “game-changer for nurturing talent in a digital age.” Participants in the program have access to a virtual studio environment, where they can collaborate with peers and receive feedback from Jazzworx and Thukuthela. Early results are promising, with several students producing demo tracks that have caught the attention of local labels.
However, challenges remain. The digital divide, a persistent issue in South Africa, limits access to reliable internet and devices for many aspiring artists. Jazzworx and Thukuthela are advocating for partnerships with telecom providers to subsidize data costs for students. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of cultural context in music education, ensuring that their curriculum celebrates South African sounds like house and amapiano while incorporating global trends.
As Jazzworx and Thukuthela continue to mentor the next generation, their partnership with UJ Digital underscores the transformative potential of technology in music education. By bridging the gap between opportunity and talent, they are not only shaping the future of South African house music but also setting a precedent for how digital platforms can empower artists across the continent.
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