INSETA impressed with how learners master a tough Business and Systems Analyst Programme

80 “novices” master the programme

The Business and Systems Analyst Programme co-sponsored by INSETA and managed by the Cape IT Initiative (CITI) is not for the faint-hearted. Yet despite the toughness of the programme, 80 learners, with little or no ICT training or qualifications have since 2011 not only mastered UCT’s intensive academic programme (NQF Level 8), but also the “on-the-job” training and mentoring at various companies.

“ICT skills are critical but scarce generally, and the insurance industry is no exception. The strategic importance of this programme is huge, and the fact that these skills are in such short supply indicates that they are not easily acquired. SANLAM and Old Mutual have been instrumental in providing the right type of workplace training for this programme.” says INSETA’s CEO, Sandra Dunn.

“This programme is only for people who want to be change makers; effecting change is never easy so it’s very, very tough and requires people with strong character,” says CITI Executive Director Jenny Mckinnel.

INSETA are particularly pleased that almost all of the 2012 graduates have become full-time employees – this is phenomenal, especially when one considers SA’s high unemployment rate! This year, a further 60 learners have been placed with companies to show that they have the “right stuff” and that they can be fast-tracked into the ICT industry.

“The programme is as tough as nails,” says Bongeka Monakali, who is a testament to the fact that the programme does work. Bongeka says that there were times during the programme that it was so difficult that she had wanted to give up. “The tenacity of past graduates inspired me to persevere and now I’m reaping the rewards.” Bongeka further explains that the secret to mastering the programme is teamwork. “If you don’t understand something or you’re not sure what to do, then ask – there’s always someone who’ll give a helping hand.” She has every reason to be proud of herself – she has been appointed as a CIM Data Warehouse Analyst at Sanlam.

Equal to the task was Abongile Ndamane, who also graduated as part of the class of 2012. She too has been appointed as a CIM Data Warehouse Analyst at Sanlam. Abongile says that during the programme there was no time for faffing. “I’ve been permanently cured of procrastination!” With the packed coursework and working at the same time, she says that it was at first very difficult to adapt, and it was only when she started planning and preparing properly for her studies and work life that she felt less overwhelmed.

“The importance of working in a team impressed me,” says Abongile. She particularly enjoyed the joint sessions when team members shared their experiences with one another. This, she says was a great learning curve, because one could avoid making the same mistakes as your teammates and,of course, apply their solutions. Business and Systems Analysts are true change agents – the core purpose of their job is to effect change to improve how things are done.

“INSETA’s mandate is to promote skills development in the insurance industry, especially scarce and critical skills. Given the positive impact the programme has had on the learners and the companies they now work for, we are delighted to partner with CITI, Sanlam and Old Mutual to support a programme that allows business to build valuable ICT capacity and be less reliant on imported skills,” says Dunn.

Whilst the programme is still only a few years old and a relatively small number of learners have been fast tracked, it could become a blueprint to accelerate ICT skills development and meet the insurance industry’s need for higher level skills, not only in ICT but in other critical areas as well.