There is no doubt that the Fourth Industrial Revolution is fast approaching and fortunately, with a broad youth base, access to global value chains as technology suppliers and the chance for SMEs to capitalise on new technologies, Africa is in a positive position to seize the opportunities ahead. Today, 165 students from the Midrand Samsung Engineering Academy graduated at the Ekhuruleni West College in Boksburg, Johannesburg joining the mission for Africa to be amongst the leaders of this next phase in the continent’s growth.
“These graduates are part of Samsung’s on-going vision to develop skilled electronics technicians and engineers by bridging the current skills gap. Engineering academies across Africa have already seen thousands of students graduate with hands-on, practical skills at no cost, enabling them to move into jobs after they graduate,” said Samsung Africa Director Customer Service, Nithia Pillay.
The ceremony attended by Sung Yoon, CEO & President of Samsung Africa, Ms Ntombizodwa Dangazele Academy Acting Principal and representatives from the Department of Higher Education and Training, Department of Basic Education, merSETA, mictseta, educators and parents. The message of encouragement to the graduated youth was delivered by Dr Musa Mthombeni. Working together, the mission is to provide access to learning facilities with the vision of transferring learning skills and enhancing youth employability in South Africa. Equipping young people with the latest technological skills to assist them to compete effectively in the job market is part of Samsung’s theme ‘Education for Future Generations’, aimed at developing skilled technicians and engineers across Africa.
Additionally, programmes such as the Engineering Academy have increased opportunities for women to enter into trades that were traditionally reserved for men. The ultimate aim is give all youth, an opportunity to change the narrative around what it means to be an artisan and break down the barriers to success. The top performing students will now get a chance to intern at Samsung Electronics or its service partners and thereafter work as independent service technicians or employees within their respective regions.
