Head of School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences (ICT) at UMP, Professor Tembisa Ngqondi, said the purpose of the networking session was for all stakeholders to meet and join forces regarding the e-Skilling of communities, and how to drive the mandate of Cybersecurity in Mpumalanga.
“As a CoLab we need to talk and share our experiences. We want to find out where we can enhance in making sure that the province is actually benefiting from the national initiative that is being presented to the communities.
Ngqondi further said that the UMP School of ICT will write modules, which will make sure that communities are learning and getting the kind of skills they need.
“When you go to all the Colabs you will hear about e-Literacy and digital integration and all other components that actually enrich that particular drive of literacy."
National Energy MISA ICT Project Manager, Mr Jacques Fortuin spoke about phishing: the fraudulent practice of scamming people to gain access to their sensitive information such as passwords, banking information.
“It is important to learn about how scammers are targeting people through social media to build better phishing lures, for example on your browser, Facebook, Twitter and many more."
“Research has shown that social media uses a lot of energy all over the world not only in one country or one computer but all over the world. Scammers use mostly social media and this causes technological harm,” warned Fortuin.
Ms Sekgana Makhoba from the MICT SETA said the organisation's partnership with universities was to create a pool of graduates that can contribute to innovative solutions.
“We work with key role players in the development of technologies and products related to 4IR. We also work with stakeholders in each sub-sector to set realistic targets, assess provision and access across provinces, regions, industries, occupations and different size companies, and identify weaknesses,” she added.
“We are also expanding skills development to rural areas. SETA’s strategy is aimed at increasing access to occupationally directed programmes for previously disadvantaged communities including the townships.”
The breakfast networking session was facilitated by the Director of Library Services Ms Zanele Mathe and Professor Phindile Lukhele-Olorunju set the tone when she welcomed the guests.
@ Story and Pictures by Cleopatra Makhaga