In response to the challenges faced by information and communication technology (ICT) graduates in securing jobs within the software development industry, Samsung initiated this ground-breaking 12-month internship programme. The initiative, which is part of Samsung’s Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP), is aimed at bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry experience. The 18 talented interns, who were selected based on their IT tertiary qualifications, were provided with intensive mentorship under the guidance of senior developers.

Samsung supported the cohort with an investment exceeding R190 000 per candidate, which went towards stipends, computer equipment and access to data, full-time access to a software engineer and mentor, and access to facilities at Tshimologong as the host of the internship program.

“The ICT industry often demands years of experience from job seekers, which can be a significant barrier for fresh graduates,” said Lenhle Khoza, B-BBEE and Transformation Manager at Samsung. “Through our partnership with Tshimologong, we’ve been able to accelerate the professional development of these interns, equipping them with skills equivalent to multiple years of industry experience.”

The programme focuses on technical skills and emphasises real-world project experience and professional mentorship. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the employability of the graduates, preparing them to contribute effectively to the tech industry in South Africa. Some of the projects include a database for educational institutions, a property maintenance system, and an application called ‘Accommodate Me’, an innovative solution that streamlines every aspect of the accommodation journey.

“Through my involvement in the Samsung Advance Industry Exposure programme, I have gained invaluable qualities like communication and the capacity to work well with others, which are critical in any field. Gaining practical work experience is crucial for graduates, and this programme gave me the chance to collaborate closely with mentors and seasoned developers,” said Phamela Makhubele, a fourth cohort student.

Since its inception in 2020, the Samsung-sponsored internship programme has yielded promising results. A total of 35 graduates from the last three cohorts have secured formal employment, representing a 100% absorption, demonstrating the programme’s efficacy in meeting industry needs. From the current cohort of 18 graduates (10 males and 8 females), who have completed this rigorous programme, six have already obtained formal employment, while the remaining 12 are undergoing interviews with prospective employers.

“Samsung remains committed to fostering the growth of quality software development skills in South Africa,” added Lenhle Khoza, B-BBEE and Transformation Manager. “Our partnership with Tshimologong not only supports the development of future tech start-ups but also contributes to the broader goal of building a skilled workforce in the ICT sector.”

“We are thrilled to announce the graduation of the fourth cohort of students who have developed advanced technology skills and are now prepared to enter the workforce. We are proud to contribute to reducing unemployment and fostering job creation. We wish our graduates the best in their future careers and hope they maintain a strong connection with Tshimologong,” said Mark Harris, CEO of Tshimologong Digital Precinct.

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 07 May 2019 – At a function, held in Johannesburg today, Samsung announced its R280 million Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP), projected to have a measurable impact on job creation and a contribution of nearly R1 billion to the South African economy at large. EEIP is an initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) where multinational companies that are unable to sell equity in South Africa are invited to participate and contribute positively towards B-BBEE and development of South Africa. The announcement event, which was addressed by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies, through a video, as well as the President and CEO of Samsung Africa, Mr. Sung Yoon, followed Samsung’s recent commitments to long term investment in South Africa.

According to Minister Davies, the Samsung South Africa’s Equity Equivalent investment amounts to almost R280 Million over 10 years. It joins nine other multinationals that have been approved for a value of R2.2 billion collectively. The programme has to date resulted in the creation of over 3 000 direct and indirect jobs.

The Samsung plan will create and address key developmental aspects linked to the National Development Plan (NDP) and overall transformation of our economy. These include the Black industrialisation through e-Waste recycling, beneficiation research and development in partnership with Mintek, which is a first for Africa, where a beneficiation plant is planned to be built and maintained by South Africans, and operated by a Black entrepreneur, enterprise development, and the development of township economies through Accredited Services Centres and software development.

“We are delighted that the Samsung EEIP will have the following measurable impacts on the South African economy: it will result in the creation of 262 direct jobs; it will allow the emergence of a new Black Industrialist; it will support 13 black-owned and women-owned businesses and will contribute R945 million to the economy. We are happy that the dti has contributed and supported Samsung in the design and development of this programme that will result in the establishment of five accredited service centres that are black and women-owned. These will be providing repair service to all kinds of brands of consumer electronics, hand-held devices, air-conditioning and refrigerators,” said Minister Davies.

The Director of Business Innovation Group and Corporate Affairs at Samsung South Africa, Mr Hlubi Shivanda added: “We believe our EEIP strategy will help alleviate the many challenges the nation faces. Our alignment with the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 is part of our statement of intent. The fact is, Samsung is firmly committed to growing South Africa through socio-economic change and has dedicated the necessary resources and time to create a future, which was once merely a dream.”

The approved Samsung SA’s EEIP has an integrated approach, which means that Samsung will be an integral partner in the creation of the first and only black-owned and operated e-waste beneficiation plant in Africa that can separate Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment (WEEE). The company has also opted for a strategic partnership-aligned model to achieve greater impact. In this regard Samsung has partnered with government departments such as DEA, DHE, DTPS and the IDC. UWC has been selected as anchor partner for the development of black application development skills. Additionally, a partnership with Microsoft AppFactory will provide real experience to supplement the theoretical knowledge gained by beneficiaries at UWC. Mintek will be Samsung’s technology partner for e-Waste beneficiation.

Ultimately, The Samsung SA EEIP will make a measurable difference to socio-economic development of black South Africans. The alignment with the overarching objectives of the NDP Vision for 2030, B-BBEE policy, Industrial Policy Action Plan, as well as the Gauteng Township Economy Revitalisation Strategy is set to make a difference by; strengthening government’s Black Industrialisation Programme, driving a culture of innovation through digital solutions, enhancing entrepreneurship development, job creation and township economic development and technical skills development to contribute to much needed skills in the country and raise the prospects of employability.

Samsung will continue to pursue opportunities where people can become meaningfully engaged in the economy and in doing so, have a positive impact on their families, communities and therein, the entire nation.