Thursday,
Aligned to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s objectives on the 4th Industrial Revolution, Cell C has a responsibility to develop and transform the youth of South Africa by providing training and opportunities that ready them for a digital future. In response to this, Cell C is today launching the Cell C Data Scientists in partnership with Explore Data Science Academy.
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 and or Software Developers at Cell C.
“We are committed to creating relevant skills development opportunities that will allow the youth of South Africa to thrive in the 4th Industrial Revolution," says Juliet Mhango Chief Human Capital Development & Transformation Officer.
A study by Accenture on Creating South Africa’s Future Workforce suggests that there are 5.7 million jobs currently at risk in South Africa, however, through the reallocation of skills and by doubling the pace at which the workforce acquires relevant skills, South African companies can reshape work and activities such that the share of jobs at risk of being fully automated reduce from 35 percent (5.7 million jobs) to 14 percent (2.5 million jobs) by 2025.
“To ensure we also effectively upskilling current Cell C employees with the relevant digital skills, 10 of the selected participants are Cell C employees who will be given a chance to develop their skills in Data Science through this program," adds Mhango.
"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%, we believe that Cell C is helping to make a meaningful difference to inclusive youth employment and adding valuable talent to its organization,” says Mark Schroeder, Chief Commercial Officer of Explore Data Science Academy.
“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," he adds.
Cell C was recently certified as a top employer by the Top Employers Institute for the seventh time running and this is one of the many ways the company aims to make a difference.
For more information on Cell C Data Scientists visit Explore Data Science Academy’s official website.
Cell C is a leading mobile provider in South Africa offering a wide range of products and services, including voice, data, device and SIM deals to more than 20 million customers.
