In Cape Town, a group of Junior Software Developers has completed an intensive 12-month Career Sprint course at redAcademy, a local IT learning hub. These graduates are now ready to embark on their professional journeys, equipped with the necessary skills and training in coding and other aspects of software development.
City’s Commitment to Economic Growth and Professional Empowerment
Alderman James Vos, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, attended the graduation ceremony, emphasizing the City’s commitment to industries that promote economic growth and professional empowerment. Vos stated that the City is determined to create an environment in which skills development and jobs are accessible to more communities. To that end, the City supports Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV) such as UVU Africa, which work to empower the IT industry.
Immediate Job Placements at redPanda Software
This first cohort of redAcademy graduates not only successfully finished their course but also secured immediate job placements at redPanda Software, a reputable software development organization. This achievement illustrates the potential for collaboration and growth within Cape Town’s thriving tech industry.
redAcademy’s Participation in VivaTech
In an effort to showcase the city’s abundant talent and innovation, redAcademy has partnered with Wesgro, the City’s investment promotion partner, to participate in VivaTech, Europe’s largest start-up and tech event. Scheduled to take place in France from June 14 to 17, 2023, the event offers an international platform for the South African tech industry.
Jessica Hawkey, Managing Director of redAcademy, expressed her excitement for the upcoming event, stating that it is an opportunity to present Cape Town as an ideal environment for companies seeking to flourish in the tech industry. During VivaTech, redAcademy will share valuable insights, expertise, and success stories that demonstrate the dynamic potential of the South African tech industry. Their goal is to inspire collaboration, innovation, and shape the future of tech talent together.
Importance of Collaboration Between Private Sector and Government
Alderman Vos also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the private sector and government in ensuring job readiness for graduates across the tech industry. As Africa’s tech and investment hub, Cape Town strives to make it the easiest place on the continent to do business. He asserted that when businesses have the freedom to grow, they expand their workforces, generating job opportunities.
The redAcademy Junior Software Developers’ graduation is a testament to Cape Town’s commitment to nurturing its IT talent and fostering an environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. As the graduates transition into their new roles at redPanda Software, they will contribute to the city’s dynamic tech landscape and become a part of the growing success story of Cape Town’s IT industry. With the upcoming VivaTech event, the city is poised to demonstrate its potential on a global stage, paving the way for continued growth and prosperity in the technology sector.