The UMP Colab programme, an initiative sought in enhancing digital skills competence for sustainable socio-economic development has focused on teaching digital skills and basic computer skills programmes, training individuals by assisting them with improving their computer literacy.
“I was granted the opportunity to be involved in the CoLab as a part-time assistant from December 2019 under the cyber security e-Skills CoLab division. It was a great experience to work with other young people. I had the opportunity to share the little information I had and changing their lives as some of them felt that the training that I was conducting was worth their time,” he says.
Makome says that his highlight was going out to communities to train different people.
“It was overwhelming yet exciting to help people from different age groups. During my community outreach in the NYDA offices, I met mostly young entrepreneurs seeking computer skills that would improve their businesses. I gained expertise in conducting workshops, training and administrative work.”
Last year Makome took part in the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) programme where he represented Relevant Technologies, an IT company he co-owns. Makome made it to the regional entrepreneurship competition after being selected amongst those who will be representing UMP during the regional rounds.
“The competition has shown me the intensity of young individuals’ hunger and desire for success. Most young people today are always seeking opportunities but lack of access to these opportunities because of issues like funding and other more basic things like knowledge. At an event like this, those with the knowledge can share the best offer they have to offer and help those seeking it,” he adds.
“I have also learnt that to be registered as a student is not limited to textbook and examinations but you have to continuously take initiative and seek opportunities. This active seeking tool becomes an advantageous skill when beginning the journey of seeking active employment but also establishing your opportunities in the form of business and preparing yourself for any challenges that lie ahead.”
Makome joined UMP in 2016 after working in operations and productions management. He took on the Diploma in Information and Communication Technology in Applications Development course. He says that his journey has been cultivated by support from family and friends, some he met at UMP.
“My personal growth has been aligned with the UMP ICT programme as the course administrators taught me about the importance of teamwork, the establishment of personal interests within the courses and developing them into career prospects. This journey has allowed me to look for opportunities – open my business – participate in community projects,” he says.
Mokome is currently involved in a graduate programme as an Infrastructure engineer for an IT company, Megatech AI, which is based in Gauteng.
@ Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.