KSS, a converged network integrator focusing on integrated data, voice and/or video solutions, has recently seen two of its learners graduate from its learnership programme.
Mduduzi Mthembu and Thabitha Ramashala have passed their exams - practical and theory - and are now qualified junior ICT engineers. KSS has acknowledged the value of sponsoring learnership programmes and next year will be its 10th year of participation in this form of skills development.
The two students were selected 18 months ago by KSS to partake in its learnership progamme, which is part of the Information Technology Business Learnership Programme (ITBLP) in collaboration with Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and ISETT SETA.
The programme comprises a one year theoretical course held at TUT and another six months is spent with a 'sponsor' such as KSS, fulfilling the 'workplace' component of their training. KSS has sponsored two additional learners, Tshidiso Rampoloane and Masello Magampa, who are currently undergoing their theoretical component at TUT and will follow suit with the practical experience at KSS.
Says Lazarus (Rusty) Mtshali, Executive Director at KSS: "The programm is providing KSS and the local market with new skills, a key requirement when considering the dearth of skilled ICT professionals. As a Cisco Silver Partner, KSS is particularly aware of the lack of Cisco qualified and experienced professionals in routing, switching, security and voice environments.
"Our participation in the ITBLP is also providing us with access to junior engineers, filling the gap on entry-level work requirements within projects where senior engineers are perhaps over-qualified for the work."
The selection is tough, with the candidates completing a comprehensive assessment and thereafter they are shortlisted by KSS. Mthembu and Ramashala showed the potential to develop into skilled IT professionals and embarked on specialisation into security and networking with the convergence specialist company.
KSS provides the learners with two types of mentors: a technical one and one that assists and supports the learners from a business and emotional perspective, encouraging the students to excel and cope with the pressures of the learning curve and a work environment. Nolita Tyopo and Stanton Whiting, experienced Cisco Certified Network Professionals, are the learners' technical mentors, and Chris Kok fills the role of 'emotional' and general business mentor.
Says Chris Kok, KSS Project Manager, Mentor and member of the ITBLP Steering Committee: "KSS ensures the learners are fully involved with KSS from a work and social perspective. It is important to assist them to fit into the 'culture' of KSS while arming them with the understanding of a business environment."
When Mthembu and Ramashala completed their theory component of the course and embarked on the workplace practical training, they were tasked with a project upon which they would be assessed. Mthembu followed the direction of wireless networking and security while Ramashala pursued her interest in Networking Operating Centre (NOC) and security.
Kok continues: "KSS obtained permission to modify the project defined and allocated by TUT, providing the learners with one that is aligned with the type of work that KSS focuses on."
The students eventually graduate to working on projects where their contribution is billed to the client, providing them with a real work experience and the requirement to interface with customers.
Mthembu and Ramashala believe the sponsorship from KSS is a huge opportunity for them as their TUT tuition fees and accommodation at the facility are paid for.
In addition, they are paid a junior contractor's salary when they embark on the six-month practical experience with KSS. However, the biggest advantage is that they are receiving 'on the ground' working experience. Mthembu explains: "The exposure to a working environment is a huge advantage, as when entering the workplace, companies not only require qualifications but also work experience. The sponsorship from KSS has provided me with the opportunity to apply my theoretical knowledge in a practical manner, allowing me to further develop my skills."
Ramashala adds: "We are exposed to the technology from a 'hands on' perspective, allowing us to establish which direction we wish to pursue as ICT is diverse. KSS has also provided us with the opportunity to specialise in Cisco's technology, allowing us to further our careers in a more strategic direction."
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