In a bid to equip young talents with essential skills for the future workplace, Huawei’s Seeds for the Future program has benefitted more than 100 South African students.
Launched in Johannesburg, the initiative is part of Huawei’s global corporate social responsibility (CSR) flagship ICT student training program. The program, in partnership with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, aims to foster a competitive edge for tech-savvy and adaptable young individuals in the evolving job market.
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Transformative Power of Technology Education
The 2023 edition of Huawei’s Seeds for the Future program emphasizes the transformative power of technology education, community contributions, and the importance of continuous learning. With a focus on nurturing skills and mindsets conducive to adaptability, the program is geared toward preparing students for the dynamic demands of the future workplace.
Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Philly Mapulane highlighted the significance of making the benefits of the digital age accessible to all, emphasizing the role of skill development in driving economic growth and societal progress.
According to Mapulane, “Scaling up skills development to support innovation and the digital revolution is an investment in the future. It’s not only about empowering individuals with the tools to succeed but also about driving economic growth and societal progress.”
Empowering South Africa’s Digital Economy
Huawei‘s Deputy Chief Executive Officer in South Africa, Kian Chen, stressed the critical connection between South Africa’s digital economy development and the availability of a skilled ICT workforce. Recruiting candidates from various universities across different provinces, the program seeks a 50-50 gender split to promote gender diversity in the tech industry.
Chen emphasized Huawei’s commitment to cultivating socially responsible and innovative young talents, envisioning them as future contributors to solving global challenges like climate change.
Success Stories and Alumni Contributions
During the event, alumni who benefited from the Seeds for the Future program and are now Huawei employees shared their success stories and experiences. Siyabonga Thomas Shandu, a program graduate and current Huawei project lead, highlighted the personal and professional growth he experienced during his journey. Other alumni, like Munyai Vhutuhawe and Basani Mathebula, shared achievements such as participating in global competitions and making significant contributions to projects aimed at protecting wildlife.
Kim Smalls, one of this year’s students, expressed optimism about the possibilities and positive changes that technology can bring. Smalls encouraged fellow students to embrace the excitement of the Seeds journey, leverage collective knowledge, inspire one another, and make a lasting impact on the world.
Huawei’s Seeds for the Future program stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to supporting education and skills development in the ICT sector, contributing to the empowerment of young individuals for future challenges and opportunities in South Africa.
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Huawei’s Global Impact
Huawei, the Chinese multinational technology giant, embarked on its global journey in 2000. With its establishment in Africa, the company has consistently contributed to the continent’s technological advancements since 1998.
Huawei’s innovative solutions have left an indelible mark across the globe, providing cutting-edge telecommunications, networking, and smartphone technology. Its continued growth and presence have not only transformed the tech landscape but also contributed to the economic development of countries worldwide. Huawei remains committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation, emphasising its role as a leader in the global technology arena.