South African Data Centre Industry's Tech Skills Deficiency Confronted by Teraco Academy
The Teraco Data Centre Academy, launched in 2022, is making a significant impact on South Africa's data center sector by addressing the critical skills shortage and promoting diversity [1][2][3]. This year-long training programme, offered by Teraco - one of Africa's leading data centre operators - combines academic learning with real-world experience, fostering a pipeline of capable technicians and creating employment opportunities [1].
The Academy's curriculum is designed to equip learners with practical skills related to data centre operations. It includes modules on data centre operations, electrical systems, HVAC, Occupational Health & Safety, and emergency response procedures [2]. Participants must hold a minimum N2 qualification in electrical engineering.
The programme is structured into three distinct phases: classroom-based technical instruction, real-world application, and evaluation for permanent employment at Teraco [1]. Approximately half of the graduates have secured employment at Teraco, reflecting the Academy's success in preparing learners for the industry.
Teraco's commitment to gender diversity is evident, with more than 60% of Academy participants being women [3]. The Academy also includes instruction in communication, conflict resolution, presentation skills, and client service, among other workplace readiness and personal development topics [2]. A mentorship component connects learners with industry professionals for career guidance, support, and operational insight.
The Academy stands as a model for how private sector initiatives can drive meaningful, lasting impact in a rapidly evolving digital economy. Its success is measured through practical, clear metrics, making it scalable and replicable across different regions [1]. The Academy has enrolled 80 learners from previously disadvantaged backgrounds since its inception [3].
The Academy contributes to broader economic development and social equity by investing in local talent and promoting inclusion. By targeting diverse learners and emphasizing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) engagement, Teraco Academy has fostered hope and inspiration among young women and other historically marginalized groups, encouraging their participation in this high-demand sector [2][3].
Teraco continuously refines its approach based on feedback and evolving industry needs, ensuring the programme remains relevant and effective in developing a skilled and diverse workforce for South Africa's digital infrastructure landscape [1]. The Academy is a testament to the power of private sector initiatives in driving positive change and shaping the future of South Africa's data center sector.
[1] https://www.teraco.co.za/news/teraco-launches-teraco-data-centre-academy/ [2] https://www.teraco.co.za/news/teraco-data-centre-academy-empowering-women-in-technology/ [3] https://www.teraco.co.za/news/teraco-data-centre-academy-creating-opportunities-for-youth-and-women-in-the-data-centre-industry/
- The Teraco Data Centre Academy, through its combination of academic learning and real-world experience, is not only producing capable technicians for the data center sector but also promoting technology education and self-development, equipping learners with practical skills and essential workplace readiness skills.
- As Teraco continuously refines its Academy approach based on feedback and industry needs, it continues to reaffirm its commitment to technology infrastructure development, promoting diversity, and fostering online education with a focus on STEAM subjects, particularly for underrepresented groups like women and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- By investing in local talent and promoting inclusion through the Academy, Teraco is demonstrating that private sector initiatives can drive positive change, shaping the future of South Africa's digital infrastructure landscape while fostering hope and inspiring historically marginalized groups to participate in the high-demand technology sector.
