Convergence lab to facilitate skills development

Not only do ICT companies in South Africa need to conquer the skills shortage battle, but they also need to facilitate the skills development of learners and young graduates to adequately prepare them for a future in ICT and related business areas. The Wits University Convergence Laboratory, partially sponsored by Vodacom, is based in the School of Electrical and Information Engineering and brings together voice, data, video, multimedia, and entertainment via Next Generation Networks.

10 Nov 2006

"As a leading innovator in South Africa, Vodacom realises the importance of converged communication and entertainment services for the future and understands the need for continued innovation and skilled human resources. It is for this reason that we have decided to partner with the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) and partly sponsor its exciting new telecommunications convergence laboratory," says Mthobi Tyamzashe, executive director: stakeholder relations at Vodacom.

Convergence - the ability for customers to access multiple services via multiple interfaces at the time and in the format they require - translates into convenient services that are easy to use and access, playing an integral part in the way customers use services today. It has been at the top of the agenda for many service delivery companies in the ICT industry in recent years and will play a vital part in the future survival of ICT service providers in South Africa. However, for services to constantly evolve and adapt to the growing needs of their users, ICT and engineering expertise will be key.

"It is a well-known fact that the ICT industry is suffering from a tremendous shortage in skilled human resources. Bridging the gap between theoretical education and skills training requires close co-operation between education and training providers as well as employers," says Tyamzashe.

According to Prof Barry Dwolatzky of Software Engineering at Wits, the laboratory - believed to be the first of its kind at a South African university - will provide a platform to carry out world class research in the technology and standards that lie at the heart of modern telecommunications. But in addition, it will feature an exciting 'client area' where convergence concepts will be demonstrated to students and the general public, in an effort to promote interest and understanding in this important new area.

"Vodacom is proud to be part of a great initiative such as the Wits Convergence Lab, as many young, bright and enthusiastic students will be given opportunities to increase their skills - increasing their value as indispensable employees and securing the ICT leaders of tomorrow," concludes Tyamzashe.