Celebrating Success: First Graduates of MICT SETA and eMedia Learnership Programme

JOHANNESBURG - Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA) and eMedia, have held the first official graduation ceremony for learners from the eMedia learnership programme, in what's being dubbed as a significant milestone.

The initiative was aimed at equipping unemployed youths with valuable skills in Film and Television Production, with NQF Level 4 and 5 qualifications. The programme provided participants with comprehensive exposure to various broadcasting workflows, a critical aspect of the media sector that is ever-evolving. 

This hands-on learning is expected to enhance the employability of these graduates, as they are now better prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry.  

Established under the Skills Development Act of 1998, MICT SETA serves as a public entity with a mission to enrich the skill set of the industry to address the challenges of new technologies and the evolving economic landscape. The organisation focuses on promoting inclusive economic growth within South Africa's advertising, film, electronic media, electronics, information technology, and telecommunications sectors. 

Jeniffer Maako, Skills Development Facilitator for the eMedia group says, “we appreciate the graduates being here and their families supporting them.” “The students got their qualifications now and they are ready to go and showcase their skills in the media spaces,” she added. 

As the graduates embark on their professional journeys, the initiative embodies the vision of "Shaping Skills, Pioneering Industries, Empowering Futures." 

Sharing her journey in the programme, Wenzile Nkosi, 27, Film and Television graduate said: “It was a nice environment to work in since I got to engage with different people as the environment was diverse.” “One of the challenges that I had was time management but overall, I had a great time,” she continued. 

Tshepang Mokharanyana, 25, Film and Television graduate expressed his gratitude, “My experience was amazing and I got to learn a lot of things in the space, outside of film. For me it was a completely different atmosphere.” 

“I learned how to be fast, think off my feet and working under pressure. I enjoyed working with different types of people. I now have a wide variety of skills that I can showcase in the media space,” he added.

This reflects the commitment to developing talent and fostering industry growth within the country. With these newly acquired skills, the graduates are poised to make meaningful contributions to the South African media landscape.

By Tshenolo Khaile and Ntandoyenkosi Kubheka