Vodacom foundation continues to touch lives and make a difference for the needy

 

Nie Cele

 

At least a group of 20 young professionals selected countrywide will get a chance to widen their horizons in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills.

 

Furthermore, in turnthey will use their skills and time to give back to their respective communities through the non-profit organisations (NPOs) of their choice, thanks to the re-launchedVodacom’s ‘Change the World’ programme.

 

This ground-breaking announcement was recently made at the Gallager Estate in Midrand.

 

According to the giant cellphone operator this initiative is designed to help advance youth economic empowerment and to promote the culture and spirit of volunteerism through the use of technology.

 

They also revealed that, the programme is earmarked to enhance skills development mainly through the placement of human capital as opposed to the traditional method of grants and sponsorship.

 

Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer for Vodacom Group Corporate Affairs, TakalaniNetshitenzhe told the audience that, the youth of 2017 is fighting for freedom from poverty, inequality and unemployment and to help alleviate their plight.

She pointed out that Vodacom has decided to respond with a specific programme to assist the youth.

 

“Through the Change the World programme, the youth are afforded a unique opportunity to do something close to their heart, while imparting their ICT skills to help society. As the impacts of the fourth industrial revolution are going to be felt hardest by the youth and women in particular, we see this as an opportunity to help bridge the digital divide in communities whilst preparing youth for a future in a fast digitising world. I am pleased to see that many young females are being placed on the programme and our task is to ensure that more young females are empowered through digital literacy and skills.”

 

On the sidelinesNetshitenzhe also told this publication that her organisation was celebrating the spirit of volunteerism and commitment to socio economic transformation.

 

“We want to make education the anchor of the Voda brand.For the past 8 years we spent R350 million on education. And we are now planning to spend another R350 million on digital literacy for teachers, learners and youth.

 

“The ICT sector will be a key delivery agent in the attainment of the sustainable development goals and it is encouraging that so many youth have shown interest in the programme,” said Netshitenzhe.

 

 

Did you know? According to Vodacom

 

• The Vodacom Change the World programme was introduced in 2011, giving individuals the opportunity to volunteer their time and skills to work for a NPO for 12 months.

 

• To date, 111 volunteers have already made a difference through their placement at a wide range of NPOs.
• All the youth participating in this programme will be well remunerated.
• On completion, the 20 youth will be armed with vital work experience; enhanced skills and access to networks that will see them enter the marketplace or even start their own companies.