ICT shortages, new PDI programs

Chris Vermeulen

They have identified technical support training (A+ certification) as the fastest route to make an immediate impact. “There is a high level of demand in the industry, even within the current economic climate,” says Bandwidth Barn GM, Chris Vermeulen. “We view this training as the first phase of a full career development programme which would see candidates ultimately move to fully qualified Microsoft-certified engineers.”

This initial programme will train ten candidates, seven of whom must be previously disadvantaged individuals (PDI), unemployed and have completed Grade 12 with the relevant subjects and a high pass rate.

‘Soft skills' lacking

Ninety other participants are being recruited for the business skills training programme. According to Vermeulen, many people in the ICT industry in the Western Cape are technically trained but lack ‘soft skills' such as business acumen, time management and project management, which are essential. The programme will therefore focus on project management, as well as incorporate training on time management and key skills for effective managers.

These will be short, high-impact courses, which will be SETA-approved at NQF levels 4 and 5 and delivered by an accredited training provider. All participants are required to be individuals with an IT background, over 70% PDI, who have some level of tertiary education or attendance at accredited courses.

The Western Cape's economic development department of the provincial government will fund the initial 100 people.

“These programmes form part of our approach to support ICT SMEs and entrepreneurs to succeed in the Western Cape,” says Vermeulen. “We firmly believe that a thriving SME sector is critical to the health of the region's economy, and hope that this programme plays a part in unlocking the significant talent and opportunity in the ICT sector.”