IT solutions distributor Networks Unlimited has selected 100 technical students who will take part in the company's12-month learnership programme.
According to Networks Unlimited, the learnership programme, operated in partnership with The Sebata Group and the Media, Information and Communications Technologies SETA, will equip the students with the experience and certifications needed to kick-start a career in the field of IT, finance, sales, business administration, event management and more.
Lynne McCarthy, security marketing and PR executive at Networks Unlimited, says the programme, which concludes in July 2017, is composed of structured learning (four months) and practical work experience (eight months).
"Practical lessons and theoretical classes are held at our company's Cape Town and Johannesburg offices. Courses which are taught include the Cisco Certified Network Associate course, A+ (Information Technology), N+ (Network Technologies), classic marketing, public relations, finance, sales and more," she explains.
Anton Jacobsz, MD of value-added distributor for converged technology, data centre, networking, and security technology at Networks Unlimited, says running a learnership programme of this scale is an incredibly rewarding experience for the Networks Unlimited team.
"We've taken a hundred learners who have the academic essentials of system and technical support, and provided a practical environment to apply and develop their skills.
"Through the programme, they attain a national registered qualification, and benefit from a powerful combination of blended skills that will make them highly attractive employment candidates," he adds.
Fifty of the learners will graduate at the end of June next year with a NQF level 5 certification in systems support, and 50 with a NQF 4 certification in technical support, he continues.
This level of involvement in skills development is something that has been key to the firm's 20 years of success, says Jacobsz.
"Positively engaging and enriching the individuals and the communities that surround us is a cornerstone of our business philosophy. Every member of our team understands the broader, highly connected environment in which we work and live.
"When considering where to focus our energies, we felt very strongly about creating sustainable skills development initiatives. Our vision for this programme is that with practical qualifications, our candidates can gain immediate employment - and become role models for others within their families and their communities," asserts Jacobsz.
Networks Unlimited says those who complete the course successfully will be offered an opportunity to apply for permanent employment within the company.