Motorola has expanded its education strategy in Africa and the Middle East. The company says, this year, it will consolidate relationships with universities and contribute to curriculum development.
In SA, Motorola has implemented a two-year programme aimed at young black engineering graduates.
"The curriculum is made up of Motorola-developed training courses. These courses are generally offered to Motorola staff," says Graham Cusack, Southern African business unit manager at Motorola.
According to Cusak, the Vaal University of Technology, the University of Johannesburg, SA Tech, ML Sultan Technikon and the University of Natal are participating in the programme.
Motorola says the South African programme works within the context of Information Systems Electronics and Telecommunication Technologies SETA for skills development. Successful candidates will be guaranteed a position in Motorola's African operations, it notes.
The strategy in Middle Eastern countries includes management programmes in the United Arab Emirates, WiMax specialisations in Pakistan and graduate recruitment in Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Jeddah and Abha.
"By drawing staff from the regional universities to meet our business growth targets, Motorola attracts some of the best new minds in areas such as engineering, sales and marketing, while addressing the issue of employment for recent graduates," says Diaa Mohamed, human resources director for Motorola Middle East and Africa.
Motorola says the strategy will include larger targets for recruitment and internship programmes. According to the company, more than 110 graduates were hired from these regions and about 85 interns were accommodated during 2006.
"Engaging with the regional education sector and creating internships enables Motorola to help strengthen the link between what is taught at universities and the skills required in the workplace," says Mohamed.
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