Pioneering ethical, inclusive, and human-centred innovation

Launched in September 2024, the Research Centre on Human-Technology Interaction (HTi) at the Central University of Technology (CUT) is a dynamic hub of excellence dedicated to shaping the future of technology in service of humanity. As digital transformation accelerates across industries and communities, HTi leads the way in ensuring that innovation is guided by people, values, and societal well-being.

Our Vision

To pioneer innovative research and transformative practices that ensure technology enhances human well-being, inclusivity, sustainability, and societal progress.

We believe technology should not only be advanced, but also accessible, equitable, and empowering. Our vision drives us to lead in research that redefines how humans and technology interact, creating a more just and resilient future for all.

Our Mission

Empowering society through ethical, inclusive, and innovative technological advancements.

We turn this mission into action by:

• Conducting interdisciplinary research at the intersection of technology, psychology, design, ethics, and policy.
• Co-creating solutions with communities, industry, and government.
• Embedding ethical frameworks into emerging technologies like AI, robotics, and digital platforms.
• Advancing inclusive design to ensure no one is left behind in the digital era.

Why Human-Technology interaction matters

From artificial intelligence to smart cities, technology is reshaping every aspect of life. But without a human-centred approach, innovation risks deepening inequalities or undermining trust.

The HTi centre ensures that technological progress is:

• Human-led, not just machine-driven.
• Ethically grounded, with accountability and transparency.
• Socially responsive, addressing real-world challenges.

We ask: Who benefits from technology? Who is included? Who decides?
Our research turns these questions into actionable insights.

Collaborative innovation

HTi actively partners with:

• CUT’s network of research centres
• The CUT AIISA Hub (Artificial Intelligence Institute of South Africa)
• Industry leaders, government agencies, and civil society

By integrating human-centred approaches into AI and digital innovation, we’re shaping technologies that are not only smart, but also fair, accessible, and trustworthy.

Expected outcomes and impact

• High-impact research publications in human-technology interaction.
• Practical ethical guidelines for emerging technologies.
• Innovative solutions to pressing societal challenges.
• A growing national and international network of researchers and practitioners.
• Enhanced curriculum integration of human-centred design in STEM and beyond.

Newsroom

CUT faculty hosts the inaugural Research Centre on Human Technology interaction workshop to reimagine knowledge in a technological age | 10 April 2025

Central University of Technology officially launches the Research Centre on Human-Technology Interaction | 20 September 2025

Driving change through education and partnerships

Beyond research, HTi is committed to shaping the next generation of technologists, designers, and policymakers. We integrate human-technology interaction into academic programme, offer student research opportunities, and support industry engagement, fostering a culture of responsible innovation across CUT.

Aligned with CUT’s strategic goals, HTi reinforces our reputation as a forward-thinking, socially engaged university at the forefront of technological and human advancement - Thinking Beyond.

Stay connected. Innovate responsibly. Put people first.