Top ICT post-graduates launched into the marketplace by The Innovation Hub's CoachLab™

	Dr Jill Sawers, manager of the CoachLab™ Programme.
	Members of the 2007 graduating class at the CoachLab™.
	Xihungasi Golele, a BCom Informatics student at the University of Pretoria, receives her certificate from Tsietsi Maleho, Corporate Affairs Manager of The Innovation Hub.

Eighteen post-graduate students showcased inventive solutions developed over a nine-month training period for real-time ICT projects, at The Innovation Hub's CoachLab™ Leadership Programme annual graduation ceremony held at The Innovation Hub on 3 December 2007.

The technologies developed included an IP (internet protocol) phone-based wireless panic button, a web-based portal for independent Network consultants, an SMS testing software system, a physical access and security solution for internal corporate use, and an innovative virtual receptionist that serves as a one-stop client service centre. Other projects undertaken were an SAP HR implementation project and a Human Resources Management project around converting Key Performance Areas into measurable success factors.

Now in its seventh year of operation, the CoachLab™ focuses on developing world-class human capital for the applied science and technology industry. The Programme partners provide the infrastructure and entrepreneurial environment, postgraduate candidates and technical expertise, project work, mentorship, supervision, and sponsorship.

Through the CoachLab™, The Innovation Hub has partnered with local industry and universities to create a year-long leadership development programme to help bridge the gap between the academic and business worlds. Candidates participate in action-learning projects that stimulate innovative thinking and develop leadership potential.

Dr Jannie Zaaiman, Dean of the Faculty of Information and Communications at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) says that programmes such as the CoachLab™ play an important role in the University's value chain by enhancing the institution's ability to assist students in the transition from the academic to the business world.

The candidates are exposed to a 'hands-on' entrepreneurial learning environment where they work on real-time projects to gain valuable practical experience. The focus is on integrating technical knowledge, leadership and practical skills, to provide students with experiences that teach them to take initiative, apply knowledge and solve problems while working on critical projects.

Neil Harper of Standard Bank, an industry partner of the CoachLab™ said that the 2007 candidates have shown particular commitment to the programme and the dual challenge of excelling in both work and study. "We congratulate the students for this fantastic achievement. It is something they can all be proud of."

Michael Mapheto, a BCom Informatics student at the University of Pretoria (UP) says that the CoachLab™ experience has been of great value. "It's a continuation of where we left off with our undergrad studies. By combining our theoretical knowledge with practical skills we are actually growing our knowledge in a practical manner, and it prepares us for the industry." Fellow UP student, Xihungasi Golele adds, "Having to juggle both school and work was a challenge. At the same time that taught me a lot. I learned to prioritise, to be more disciplined, and to manage time. We were left to grow and learn on our own. I think that was done on purpose to see how professional and how much of leaders we are. "

These sentiments were endorsed by Jabulani Nhlapo, an MTech in Electrical Engineering student at TUT who was also voted 'most promising leader' by the CoachLab™ students, saying "In my experience, you actually become different. Even your behaviour shows that you are no longer 100% academic. CoachLab™ adds something more that shows growth - academically and socially."

CoachLab™'s partnering approach provides benefits for all stakeholders. Involvement in the programme affords companies with a 'fresh eye' for service and product development and access to innovative ideas while applying due diligence on possible future employees. Universities benefit from enhanced relationships with industry and from practical exposure to industry projects.

Dr Jill Sawers, Manager of the CoachLab™ Programme announced at the graduation ceremony that it was a great pleasure to announce that the ISETT-Seta had joined the CoachLab™ programme as a sponsoring partner. The CoachLab™ has now become a truly public-private partnership.

The CoachLab™ partners are Cisco Systems, EPI-USE Africa, Isett-Seta, MTN, Standard Bank, The Resilience Company, Tshwane University of Technology, University of Pretoria and University of South Africa (UNISA).

Visit the CoachLab™ website for more information or contact Gopi Setumo at Tel +27 12 844 0031.