JUNE 2024, 10 students from around the country were awarded bursaries for a comprehensive six-month full-stack web developer bootcamp courtesy of HyperionDev, Southern Africa’s largest tech education provider, and computer hardware company ASUS.
The initiative was the second such giveaway as part of reigning Miss South Africa Natasha Joubert’s educational advocacy campaign.
According to Joubert, IT and technology remain the top employment sectors for earning potential in South Africa where there are currently around 44 000 unfilled, entry-level digital vacancies, with the demand for skilled professionals far outstripping supply and the severe skills shortage exacerbated by deep socioeconomic disparities.
Riaz Moola, CEO and founder of HyperionDev, agreed and said: “Tech skills development is imperative for fostering sustainable economic growth and empowering the youth with the necessary tools to thrive. Collaborative initiatives like these are examples of how we are getting one step closer to narrowing the digital skills gap in South Africa.”
Five of the recipients had this to say:
Bongane Zwane: “My experience studying web development has been very fulfilling. Initially, everything seemed difficult and impossible to overcome, but once I started utilising study tools such as YouTube videos, engaging more with mentors and dedicating more time to learning, things began to flow. Where it gets a bit challenging is when you have to solve a specific problem using the coding methods you’ve been taught. This is where it becomes tricky because you realise that it’s not just about learning the coding languages, but also about adopting a new way of thinking. It’s about transforming a problem into something that can be solved by writing computer code.”
Johane Neethling: “So far, I’m finding it to be incredibly rewarding. I genuinely enjoy the challenge that comes with each new task, and there’s a real sense of fulfilment every time I successfully solve a problem. The difficulty level keeps things engaging and motivates me to push my boundaries. Each accomplishment fuels my excitement about the future and the potential it holds. Overall, this experience is both stimulating and inspiring, and I’m eager to see where it takes me.”
Nnanana Madisha: “My experience at HyperionDev has been incredible thus far. The onboarding session was thorough, helping us set up and navigate the student portal efficiently. The support team has been exceptionally helpful and the lessons are well-structured and straightforward. Additionally, mentors are always available to assist whenever needed.”
Rolivhuwa Funyufunyu: “So far it is going well, a bit challenging but it is just amazing to see how much I am growing each day. I am really enjoying it.”
Zethu Mokoena: “The opportunity to participate in the course is a wonderful opportunity for me. My participation in this programme is improving my technical abilities and providing me with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in the ever-evolving field of technology.”
Miss South Africa 2024 beauty pageant finale takes place at SunBet Arena, Pretoria on August 10.
Image (Rolivhuwa Funyufunyu, is one of the students’ awarded bursaries for a comprehensive six-month full-stack web developer bootcamp courtesy of HyperionDev, Southern Africa’s largest tech education provider, and computer hardware company ASUS).
