by AKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – VODACOM Group and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) have partnered for the three-month Emerging Leaders Programme (ELP), a leadership development initiative designed to youth for the future of work.
The Development and Leadership Unit (DLU) in the Division of Student Affairs at Wits is offering the programme.
The collaboration launches with students from Wits, with the intention of expanding to other higher education institutions, aiming to create a replicable model for skills development and youth empowerment across the continent, focusing on Vodacom markets including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Mozambique and Tanzania.
Ayman Essam, Vodacom Group’s Chief of External Affairs, said the partnership demonstrated a commitment to empowering future leaders.
The official noted young people today need more than theoretical knowledge but need to understand how business works, how to engage with government and stakeholders, and how to think strategically about complex issues.
“By working closely with Wits, we’re creating opportunities for students to learn these skills while still at university. That’s a game-changer,” Essam said.
The collaboration provides students with Digital Skills Development, Functional Exposure, Industry Mentorship, Real Business Challenges and Leadership Development.
Jerome September, Wits Dean of Student Affairs, said their responsibility was to help shape students’ potential and graduate a resourceful and resilient student body that is ready for work, equipped to lead organisations, and committed to being active citizens who positively impact the world for good.
“Partnering with Vodacom Group highlights the importance of early collaboration between employers and students in order to build stronger bridges between education and industry,” September said.
– CAJ News