ICT forum is launched
The Chris Hani District Business Forum is set to establish several sector forums to revive local economic development that young people can participate in.
An ICT sector forum was launched on Tuesday.
Four young role players in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector from the various local municipalities in the Chris Hani district have been appointed as part of an interim ICT forum structure, with two others still to be included. The business forum s
’ secretary, Sakile Mvana, said:
For the first time in the
“existence of the business forum we are proud to have launched the IT sector forum, because previously the construction forum was the dominant formation.
We ve now decided to
“’ reach out to as many sectors as we can, so they may receive assistance where it is required.”
ICT forum interim structure member Thozama Njotini, who serves as provincial chairperson for the Black Information Technology Forum (BITF), said their aim was to create opportunities for local SMMEs. Several government fibre
“contracts have been awarded to big businesses from outside the province.
We ve found that one of the “’ key hindrances to local SMMEs is the lack of accreditation, especially in rural areas, so it is important for an ICT forum to exist in this area.
We want to ensure
“partnership of small businesses with the bigger ones as subcontractors, so there are job opportunities, and for them to learn new work from established businesses.”
Forum member Lazola Pukwana said informal businesses needed to be included in the sector. There are many internet
“cafes, DSTV installers and others that operate informally and therefore cannot receive assistance when required, because their businesses are not registered. Our role is to ensure their registration and conduct training, when necessary, to upskill people.”