When ICDL Africa launched a Facebook competition to find out exactly how having an ICDL (International Computer Driving Licence) impacted the lives of candidates, the response was overwhelming. “We know the benefits, but hearing real stories about the positive changes brought about by ICDL is what makes it worthwhile,” says Jenny van Niekerk, CEO of ICDL South Africa.
After sifting through a number of inspired entries and choosing a winner, ICDL held an official prize handover ceremony on Friday, 25 May 2012, at its head office in Cape Town.
Twenty-three-year-old Lundi Ngcani, from Cofimvaba, in the Eastern Cape, was chosen as the winner and was thrilled to receive his very own BlackBerry. His story stood out and the impact ICDL has made on his life has had far reaching consequences beyond opening the doors to a brighter future.
Ngcani was afforded the opportunity to obtain his ICDL at False Bay College through a bursary from the Department of Communication (DOC), and he is now studying computer science, a move he says would not have been possible without ICDL. Ngcani is currently being paid as a computer science tutor at CPUT and thanks ICDL for paving the way to this wonderful opportunity.
When asked what life was like before and after ICDL, Ngcani says: “Before ICDL, the only mouse I had knowledge of was the one I used to hunt back then, and now, I am in a position where I am able to teach my skills to others and make a difference in their lives.”
Also at the function was Susan Mhakure, IT Programme Manager at False Bay College, who is extremely proud of Ngcani and how far he has come. “When it comes to obtaining your ICDL, hard work pays off, and Lundi is proof of that.”
ICDL is the first step in bridging the digital divide in South Africa and equips candidates with more than IT skills; it provides an invaluable life skills qualification.
Jenny van Niekerk went on to say: “South Africa is currently experiencing a skills shortage in IT, but ICDL is putting these skills within reach of all South Africans. We are extremely proud of Lundi and all the other entrants who have used ICDL to positively change their lives.”
Asked if he had any parting words before leaving with his new BlackBerry, Ngcani said: “ICDL really gives you the edge. I have family members who have done similar courses, but don't know half as much as I have learnt through ICDL.”
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