A dream came true yesterday for ten Coega Development Corporation (CDC) interns after they graduated from the Business Analysis and Systems Analysis (BASA) Programme at the University of Cape Town (UCT).
The programme started in 1998 in Cape Town to support the growth of the Western Cape information and communications technology (ICT) industry. In 2010, it expanded focus in support of the greater industry, encompassing related skills of all ICT enabled industries, particularly the service-oriented industries. Its footprint was further extended to the Eastern Cape in early 2013, through the CDC’s participation.
“We decided to take part in this programme as we saw value in it improving our systems – and through it, we have been able to contribute towards development of critical skills in the ICT enabled industries right here in the Eastern Cape where these skills are in short supply,” said Thandi Rayi, CDC corporate social investment manager.
The ten interns come from various educational backgrounds and were identified by the CDC to take part in the programme because they showed “initiative and potential”. The outcome is that three of the ten interns have been absorbed by the organisation on a permanent basis due to their enhanced skills.
“I am truly grateful to the CDC for the opportunity that they have given me, the support and guidance that they have provided to us is unexplainable,” said Anele Mbelekane, CDC intern.
A further focus of the programme is to elevate the appeal of the CDC’s sought-after internship programme. “Through such initiatives we are able to ensure competitiveness of the CDC’s internship pool when they seek permanent employment both internally and externally and forms part and parcel of the organisation’s objective for socio-economic transformation and gainful engagement of interns,” said Ayanda Vilakazi, CDC head of marketing and communications.
The CDC’s internship programme is a beacon of light for a range of graduates whose skills are honed under the guidance of mentors and experts. Currently the CDC employs 124 interns as part of its internship programme. The interns also have access to the company’s driver training programme, adding to their skills base and attractiveness as future employees.
“Our continuous commitment to the development of our staff is un-paralleled; Coega consistently invests in our staff development and training because we believe that this is the most important investment we can make for the long-term sustainability of the business. Staff achievements are our achievements and the interns’ determination is a true reflection of the CDC values,” added Vilakazi.
Thandi Rayi (centre) with the Coega Development Corporation (CDC) interns who recently graduated from the University of Cape Town as part of the Business Analysis and Systems Analysis (BASA) Programme. With her are the graduates from left: Mbulelo Tom, Sivenathi Maswana, Ntombizine Ncedani, Mongezi Guga, Andisiwe Siyegu, Lumka Salamtu, Nkosinathi Bitsini, Vuyani Majola Anele Mbelekani.
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