Many disadvantaged South Africans have a level of basic computer literacy, but few have been able to secure employment in more senior positions, as the skills required are far beyond their limited abilities. Network administrators is one such case, a field demanding both skills and hands-on practical knowledge.
Partners In Education (PIE) seeks to change that. Founded in 1996 by Madge Networks, PIE has already delivered a number of highly skilled and practical LAN administrators into an industry desperately in need of their abilities. "Partners in Education draws candidates largely from previously disadvantaged communities, looking to help those with the necessary capabilities, excel" observes PIE General Manager, Gordon Miller. "Every applicant has to pass a series of stringent evaluation procedures before being accepted onto the programme. Their Diplomas in Data and Word Processing or Computer and Information processing clearly helping their applications."
The five month PIE programme delivers hands-on LAN management and administration and integration skills. Candidates use and become familiar with all of the industry-standards including Unix, NetWare, High Speed Ethernet, High Speed Token Ring, ATM, as well as broadband and wireless communication.
"More recently, PIE has updates its programme to include video conferencing, FDDI, frame relay, SMDS and TCP/IP protocols," adds Miller.
"Clearly, this training carries a cost. At well over R34 000 per candidate, we have been glad to enjoy the support many large corporations in South Africa, which have sponsored equipment worth hundreds of thousands of Rands. As a result, PIE is able offer the five month course at a sponsored price of R8500 per person."
Companies sponsoring one or more candidates on the PIE programme have first option of employing these highly specialised and in-demand graduates.
To date, PIE graduates have been employed as (junior) LAN technicians and engineers by First National Bank, Rainstar, Standard Bank, Old Mutual, Nedcor, SAA, Transnet Datavia and Rennies, with outstanding results. Many PIE graduates who were taken on in junior positions have already begun their climb up the corporate ladder, competing for and winning increasingly senior management positions.
One successful PIE graduate was head-hunted by an international concern and is now working as a LAN engineer overseas.
"The next intake of PIE students will be commencing their studies in March,` concludes Miller. "Sponsorships for these students are available, but we are by no means over subscribed. Companies able to provide support for one or more candidates, as well as those interested in employing PIE graduates, should call me as soon as possible. These students will be highly valuable when they are qualified, some assistance in helping them reach their goals will go a long way to making their dreams a reality."
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