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Software AG SA launches internship


Johannesburg, 16 Feb 2006

In a determined bid to address specific technical skills gaps in the IT industry, Software AG South Africa has launched an internship focused on skills development, the upliftment of previously disadvantaged individuals and empowerment.

Devon Dalbock, Director of Software AG SA, says the company decided to partner with The People Business Group to ensure the interns selected for the programme received the appropriate life skills and business training in addition to the specialist technical education provided by Software AG.

"After evaluating a number of ways in which Software AG could contribute to the South African market, we have ascertained that this is one of the most practical, measurable ways for us to give something back to both the community and the industry," Dalbock says.

Four interns have entered into the inaugural 12-month programme, which is running as a pilot project for registration with ISETT SETA as an official learnership. This approach is in line with ISETT SETA's long-term objectives, which include encouraging organisations to run internships to develop specialist skills.

The interns were handpicked by The People Business Group following a rigorous selection and assessment process. All four have technical IT backgrounds with degrees or diplomas in the field and personality profiles were conducted to evaluate their attitudes to new environments as well as their work ethics. The successful candidates are Michael Diholo, Moeketsi Motloung, Semakaleng Rinah Maherry and Bhekani Mlambo.

Kathleen Genade, Director: Professional Services of The People Business Group, says: "In addition to assisting with the selection of the interns, our role involves conducting the life skills and business orientation section of the training. This covers everything from business etiquette to how to run a meeting, communicate, do a budget, buy a car, operate a cheque account, handle stress and develop presentation skills."

The technical skills training, which accounts for 70% of the programme, includes a considerable amount of practical on-the-job instruction for which the interns have been seconded to Software AG as well as two of its business partners, Dovetail and IEMAS. Each company participating in the programme has appointed a mentor who will act as a central point for the interns in the workplace.

"As the real-world work experience is so critical, the mentors will be attending training with us on mentoring and coaching in the workplace," Genade says. "There are strict measures set up, and the programme is monitored from all aspects monthly and quarterly to ensure everything is on track."

At the end of the programme, the interns present themselves to the sponsors with the objective of applying for a position within the company. "With this intensity of training and mentoring, the development one sees over 12 months is extraordinary. I am confident these four young people will be well positioned to be future stars of the IT industry," Genade says.

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Editorial contacts

Petra Peacock
C-Cubed Communications
(011) 794 4665
Devon Dalbock
Software AG
(011) 575 3000