Zimpapers Logo

Jacqueline Ntaka

ZIMBABWE is currently grappling with a significant shortage of ICT-skilled professionals, a gap that poses a serious challenge to the country’s digital transformation and economic development. This shortage affects the ability to develop, implement, and maintain digital technologies across various sectors, hindering progress in an increasingly digital world.

The lack of ICT skills in Zimbabwe is a multifaceted issue. The key challenges facing the ICT sector include low investment in ICT technologies and the lack of a large pool of skilled ICT professionals. This shortage is evident in both the public and private sectors, where the demand for skilled ICT personnel far outstrips supply.

The Covid-19 pandemic further highlighted the critical need for digital skills. As businesses and educational institutions shifted online, the gap in ICT skills became more pronounced. Many companies struggled to adapt to the new digital norm, and the lack of skilled professionals to manage and implement digital solutions exacerbated these challenges.

Several factors contribute to the shortage of ICT-skilled professionals in Zimbabwe. The education system in Zimbabwe has not kept pace with the rapid advancements in technology.

Many educational institutions lack the resources and infrastructure to provide comprehensive ICT training. Additionally, many skilled ICT professionals leave Zimbabwe for better opportunities abroad, leading to a significant brain drain. This exodus of talent further depletes the already limited pool of skilled professionals. There is also a lack of investment in ICT training and development.

To bridge the ICT skills gap, Zimbabwe needs to adopt a multifaceted approach. There is a need to revamp the educational curriculum to include comprehensive ICT training from primary to tertiary levels. This includes investing in modern ICT infrastructure and training educators to deliver high-quality ICT education.

Collaboration between the Government and private sector can help address the skills gap. Initiatives like the Huawei Seeds for the Future programme, which aims to develop ICT talent among young people, are a step in the right direction.

Providing incentives for students to pursue careers in ICT can help attract more talent to the field. Scholarships, internships, and job placement programmes can encourage more young people to enter the ICT sector.

Creating a conducive environment for ICT professionals to work in Zimbabwe is crucial. This includes offering competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and a stable working environment. Encouraging continuous learning and professional development among existing ICT professionals can help keep their skills up-to-date with the latest technological advancements.

Having a sufficient number of ICT-skilled professionals can significantly benefit Zimbabwe in several ways. A skilled ICT workforce can drive innovation and efficiency in various sectors, leading to economic growth. Digital technologies can enhance productivity, reduce costs, and open up new markets. ICT skills are essential for modernising public services. From healthcare to education, digital solutions can improve service delivery and accessibility.

The ICT sector has the potential to create numerous job opportunities. By developing a skilled workforce, Zimbabwe can attract ICT companies and startups, leading to job creation and economic diversification. A robust ICT sector can enhance Zimbabwe’s competitiveness on the global stage. By developing digital skills, the country can participate more effectively in the global digital economy.

ICT skills can empower individuals and communities, providing them with the tools to improve their livelihoods and access information and services.
Jacqueline Ntaka is the CEO of Mviyo Technologies, a local tech company that provides custom software development, mobile applications and data analytics solutions. She can be contacted on [email protected]