Without the right technology to hand, businesses can find themselves left on the back burner.
After all, the need for state-of-the art equipment and cutting-edge knowledge is no longer reserved for those companies linked exclusively to the IT sector in obvious ways, but has come to encompass everything from media and tourism, to education and medical science.
As a result, the eSkills Alliance – which encompasses the Malta Information Technology Agency and numerous key players within the local ICT industry – have come together to focus their attention on how to enhance human resources in this segment. Because, while the number of companies requiring e-skills continues to skyrocket, there still aren’t nearly enough ICT graduates to fill the many job roles.
“Malta’s digital agenda is extremely focused on upping the number of competent students who graduate from the University of Malta and other educational institutions,” explains Fabianne Ruggier, executive secretary of eSkills Alliance.
“Their skills will be integral to the development of so many industries in the coming years. We simply cannot afford to be left behind.”
In line with this, numerous activities and events are lined up for the next few months, aimed at encouraging more students to enroll on courses related to ICT. Next up is eSkills Week, which is being held between tomorrow and Friday.
“This is just one of many initiatives being launched in the coming months,” continues Ms Ruggier.
“We hope it will successfully shed light on the many viable career opportunities this industry can offer. We plan to speak directly to students, parents, guidance counselors and industry professionals.”
Throughout eSkills Week there will be a variety of events on the go, each targeting different demographics.
Standards for iTalent as a tool for ICT career counselling: Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 12.45 p.m., at MITA 01, the new MITA premises in St Venera.
This talk, aimed at teachers and careers counsellors, will provide information on how the standards for iTalent can be used, as well as the benefits that these give to students when making a career choice.
A presentation will be given by a company that has utilised the standards already, which will include a live demonstration.
Nurturing the local ICT industry and ICT workforce: Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., at MITA 01.
This workshop will look at feedback from the six pilot companies now using the new occupational standards as part of their HR practices.
The aim of the workshop is to encourage an open discussion regarding what’s working and not working from the use of the standards.
Investing in our students’ potential: Wednesday from 9.30 to 11.30 a.m., at San Andrea School, Imselliet, l/o Mġarr.
During this talk, MITA and other ICT industry professionals will highlight some careers in ICT, as well as the skills required to pursue them.
This event is open to both parents and students.
Social Media, Business Media and Data-Driven Careers: Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m., at MITA 1.
This networking event will provide young people between the ages of 16 and 25 with information on the ICT sector.
It will highlight social media, business media and data-focused careers, and will include a visit to the Data Centre in the new MITA building.
My Brighter Future: March 29, morning at Blata l-Bajda Girls Junior Lyceum.
This talk will focus on the post-secondary educational pathways towards ICT careers for girls, and will include a talk by representatives from the University on the courses available across various institutes.
eSkills and eCareers Open Day powered by MITA: Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at MITA 1.
Students have been invited to the Open Day at Mcast and the University, and each will have the opportunity to meet with ICT professionals as part of a variety of activities, talks and networking events being held throughout the day.
Beyond the events of eSkills Week, numerous other, related activities will be held in 2012.
For details call the eSkills Alliance on 2123 4710 or visit www.mita.gov.mt.