For over 27 years, Telkom’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) programme has been a beacon of progress in South Africa’s ICT industry, playing a critical role in developing the nation’s talent pool and addressing crucial technological gaps.
Established in 1997, the CoE initiative is designed to empower students by fostering research, innovation, and skills development, particularly in the fields of Computer Science and Engineering (CS&E).
By enabling access to advanced education and research opportunities, Telkom’s CoE programme has significantly contributed to the creation of a future-fit, skilled workforce that is driving South Africa’s digital transformation.
A visionary programme rooted in collaboration
The inception of the CoE programme came at a time when South Africa was navigating significant technological and socio-economic challenges.
Recognising the need for a robust ICT infrastructure, Telkom spearheaded this initiative as a strategic investment to bridge the skills gap and promote research and development (R&D).
The programme was built on a collaborative model that brought together various stakeholders, including the ICT industry, government entities such as the National Department of Trade and Industry, and the National Research Foundation (NRF).
With over 50 funding partners since its launch, the CoE programme remains the longest-running coordinated R&D initiative of its kind in the South African ICT sector.
Its enduring success lies in its ability to unite academia, industry, and government towards a common goal – empowering students and driving innovation.
Empowering the next generation of ICT leaders
The heart of the CoE programme lies in its unwavering commitment to student empowerment.
Through partnerships with 15 leading universities across the country, including the University of Cape Town, Nelson Mandela University, and the University of the Witwatersrand, the CoE programme provides post-graduate students with unparalleled opportunities for specialised training in CS&E. These institutions serve as incubators of talent, where students are equipped with market-relevant skills and engaged in cutting-edge research that addresses both local and global ICT challenges.
The programme’s impact extends far beyond the classroom.
By fostering a culture of research excellence, the CoE initiative has empowered students to push the boundaries of technology, resulting in innovative research outputs that directly contribute to South Africa’s digital economy.
In fact, at least four products have been developed as a result of CoE-based research between 1997 and 2022, further solidifying the programme’s role in driving technological advancements.
Building a skilled workforce for the future
One of the key outcomes of the CoE programme is its role in building a highly skilled ICT workforce.
Since 2004, more than 300 graduates from the CoE initiative have been employed by Telkom, many of whom now hold top management and technical positions within the company. These professionals are not only shaping Telkom’s strategic direction but also playing an instrumental role in South Africa’s broader ICT ecosystem.
In 2023, Telkom deepened its commitment to student empowerment by signing a new partnership with the University of the Witwatersrand. With a R100 million investment over three years, this partnership aims to develop innovation-related skill sets that will further elevate South Africa’s global competitiveness in ICT.
Closing the skills gap and promoting inclusive growth
A standout feature of the CoE programme is its focus on empowering previously disadvantaged communities and promoting inclusive growth.
By providing funding and resources to tertiary institutions across the country, the programme has helped bridge the digital divide, enabling students from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in ICT.
The CoE’s efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion are critical to ensuring that the benefits of digital transformation reach all corners of society.
Additionally, the programme plays a crucial role in addressing the high-level CS&E skills gap, which remains a significant barrier to South Africa’s ICT growth. By nurturing a pipeline of talented professionals, the CoE programme is ensuring that the country has the human capital needed to drive its technological advancement.
A legacy of innovation and research xxcellence
The Telkom CoE programme is not just about training students – it’s about fostering a culture of innovation and research excellence that will have a lasting impact on South Africa’s ICT industry. From pioneering research projects to the development of market-relevant solutions, the CoE initiative has become a vital part of the country’s innovation ecosystem.
Through its network of partnerships with industry players, government initiatives like the Department of Science and Technology’s Innovation Bridge, and research institutions, the CoE programme provides students with the resources, expertise, and guidance needed to tackle complex technological challenges. This collaborative approach ensures that research outcomes are not only academically rigorous but also commercially viable, contributing to the country’s economic growth.
Empowering a digital future
The Telkom Centres of Excellence have, for nearly three decades, played a transformative role in shaping South Africa’s ICT sector.
By empowering students through access to advanced education, cutting-edge research, and industry partnerships, the CoE programme is building the foundation for a skilled workforce that will lead South Africa into the digital future.
As South Africa continues to evolve in the face of global technological change, the impact of the Telkom CoE programme will be felt for generations to come – an enduring testament to the power of education, innovation, and collaboration in empowering students and transforming industries.
The Southern Africa Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (SATNAC) returns to the African stage, with a deep dive into the transformative power of AI. Hosted by Telkom, SATNAC 2024 will take place from 6 – 9 October in the heart of the Kruger National Park at the Skukuza Rest Camp.
This year’s theme, “The AI-Driven Hyperconnected Future: Co-creating shared value,” promises insightful discussions and groundbreaking research presentations.
South Africa is rapidly emerging as a global leader in AI adoption, defying outdated technological stereotypes. Recent data reveals that over 60% of South African workers regularly use generative AI tools, surpassing rates in many Western nations.
This eagerness to embrace AI is further reflected in the workforce’s strong desire for AI training, with nearly 85% expressing interest.
This proactive approach to AI adoption positions South Africa for significant economic growth. The AI market in South Africa is projected to reach R6.9 billion by 2025, fuelled by increasing investment and adoption across various industries.
What’s more, many businesses are recognising AI’s potential to streamline operations, boost productivity, and drive innovation while appreciating legacy system challenges and the need for increased skill to drive the adoption.
