Upskilling the youth in data science
JOBURG – In response to upskilling vulnerable youth and preparing them for competitive labour markets, Cell C has partnered with Braamfontein’s Explore Data Science Academy to launch the Cell C Data Scientists project.
In all its splendour and minor victories, South Africa’s year has been marred by a bleak outlook for youth employment as young people remain vulnerable to labour markets despite their education level. In response to upskilling vulnerable youth and preparing them for competitive labour markets, Cell C has partnered with Braamfontein’s Explore Data Science Academy to launch the Cell C Data Scientists project.
“Youth unemployment is so high. We’re finding that the youth are actually not equipped with the right skills for employment. What we’re trying to do is equip the youth with skills that they can utilise now and in the future, at the same time, the project is looking at our own employees and ensuring that we constantly upskill our employees,” said Juliet Mhango Cell C chief human capital development & transformation officer.
Launched 5 December, the partnership will provide funding and skills development to 24 disadvantaged young men and women from all over the country who show high potential in Maths and Science. These students will participate in a yearlong program that will see them qualify as ICT innovators and potential employment as data scientists, engineers or software developers at Cell C.
“Explore Data Science Academy is delighted to be adding Cell C to its growing list of corporate sponsors. With Explore’s post-graduation employment record of 93 per cent, we believe that Cell C is helping to make a meaningful difference to inclusive youth employment and adding valuable talent to its organization,” Mark Schroeder, chief commercial officer of Explore Data Science Academy said.
In a changing world that is rapidly turning digital and as South Africa slowly steps into the fourth industrial revolution, the demand for tech and data skills has seen a high as businesses are forced to adapt to the needs and wants of the new digital world.
“Globally and in South Africa, there is a growing demand for digital skills with an ability to solve real-world problems. This partnership enables that demand to be met in an efficient and innovative model with benefits for the learners, Cell C and ultimately our country. These partnerships enable young South Africans to do amazing things,” Schroeder said.
Although a dark cloud continues to linger above youth employment, Mhango was hopeful that the project would lead to the reallocation of skills by doubling the pace at which the workforce acquires relevant skills.
“My passion is people development. I love to see people grow and people development is important as we have to transform it. As corporates, we can’t stand back and point fingers at the economy or government, we have got to create the growth,” said Mhango.
