ZTE Uganda has pledged stronger collaboration with Kyambogo University to bridge the gap between academic training and industry demands, following an interactive workshop held at the university on June 13, 2024.
The event attracted a large number of engineering students and focused on internship opportunities, job openings, and advancements in telecommunications and technology. It served as a platform for the company and students to exchange ideas and explore career development pathways.
ZTE CEO Mr. Wang praised the university for producing skilled graduates in telecom and electrical engineering but pointed out a shortage of specialists in emerging fields such as Internet Protocol (IP) and network optimization. He urged closer collaboration with the engineering department to address the skills gap.
“There is no cap on internship slots. All students who qualify are encouraged to apply. But remember, punctuality and discipline are key,” Mr. Wang told the students.
The Director of Human Resources at ZTE Uganda, Mr. Daniel Balaba, elaborated on the internship program’s requirements and advised students to pursue relevant certifications, such as Cisco’s CCNA and project management, to improve their chances in a competitive job market.
“Strengthen your CVs and keep learning. Certifications will help you stand out,” Mr. Balaba said.
Representing the university’s engineering department, Dr. Mugerwa called on ZTE to ensure gender inclusivity in its internship recruitment. He also proposed broader collaboration, including joint short courses, exchange programs, scholarships, and curriculum input from industry experts.
The students actively engaged during the Q&A session, raising questions about internship application processes, industry expectations, and career pathways. Both parties identified potential areas for long-term cooperation, which could benefit students and enhance the university’s academic offerings.
The workshop marked a step forward in aligning university education with real-world industry needs, reinforcing ZTE’s commitment to nurturing Uganda’s next generation of telecom professionals.
