Intelligent CIO Africa Issue 88 | Page 20

TRENDING
Through personalised guidance and real-world advice , mentors empower learners to navigate complex client interactions with poise and professionalism , thereby enhancing their overall employability and career prospects .
Training
CG Selva Ganesh , VP , CEO South Africa ,
In2IT Technologies for comprehensive training programmes that are agile and responsive to the evolving demands of the IT sector . Such programmes should not only impart foundational knowledge but also equip learners with practical , industry-relevant skills that are in high demand .
Additionally , fostering strong partnerships between educational institutions and industry stakeholders can facilitate the co-creation of curricula that align with current market needs , ensuring that learners are adequately prepared for the realities of the job market .
Mentorship
In industries like Information Technology , junior employees often grapple with barriers such as technical complexity , communication challenges , and confidence issues when collaborating directly with clients . Mentorship programmes play a crucial role in bridging this gap by providing guidance on necessary abilities and tactics .
An experienced mentor can offer insights into navigating challenges , ultimately making graduates more job-ready and facilitating their integration into the workforce .
Furthermore , mentorship programmes not only bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application but also cultivate essential soft skills , such as effective communication and problem-solving , which are indispensable in client-facing roles within the IT industry .
By fostering meaningful relationships between seasoned professionals and junior employees , mentorship programmes create a supportive environment where learners can not only acquire technical expertise but also develop the confidence and resilience needed to excel in their roles .
If we get down to the nitty gritty , comprehensive training programmes form the foundation to equip learnership participants with the necessary skills and job readiness . These programmes should define focus areas , build awareness , boost engagement , and reinforce progress . Strategies such as needs analysis , clear learning objectives , and regular evaluation ensure that training programmes are effective and impactful in preparing graduates for the workforce .
Successful mentorship programmes emphasise clarity , communication , and commitment . To replicate and scale these programmes , regular checks , change management practices , and measuring the impact on retention are essential . By fostering a culture of mentorship , organisations can empower learnership participants to shift their mindsets towards sustainable career paths .
Society , including educational institutions , learnership providers , and government entities , play a crucial role in fostering a mindset shift among participants . By promoting inclusivity , equal opportunities , and emphasising long-term career growth over short-term financial gains , these stakeholders contribute to addressing the skill gap and reducing unemployment rates .
Learners need to move beyond viewing learnership programmes solely as avenues for temporary stipends , and rather embrace a mindset geared towards long-term career trajectories . While challenges persist in transitioning to stable employment , such as funding limitations and skill mismatches , a holistic approach encompassing comprehensive training , industry partnerships , and mentorship programmes is instrumental in addressing these hurdles effectively .
Moreover , corporate investment assists greatly in nurturing sustainable careers , with a focus on work placements , comprehensive training , and mentorship opportunities . Through concerted efforts from society and government entities , including promoting inclusivity and prioritising long-term career growth , stakeholders can contribute to fostering a workforce that is resilient , adaptable , and primed for success in the ever-evolving landscape of employment . p
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