Up-and-coming software programmer, Khanya Somagaca, hailing from the small town of King Williams Town in the Eastern Cape, has recently completed the Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) program. The SIC, aimed at boosting youth employment in the technology sector, equips young individuals with information and communication technology (ICT) and Fourth Industrial Revolution skills, while also encouraging them to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in the field of information and communications technology.
Somagaca’s journey in the world of technology began with a remarkable transformation. Having been computer illiterate and lacking access to computers and video games during his schooling years, he never envisioned himself in the IT field. Initially aspiring to study law, he ultimately pursued a degree in information technology, majoring in programming, due to limited space in the law program.
It was during his time at Walter Sisulu University, just before completing his degree, that Somagaca was presented with the golden opportunity to participate in the SIC program. This invaluable experience allowed him to expand his IT skills and knowledge, leading to a newfound passion for programming languages such as Java, Visual Basic, and Python. The prospect of creating something from scratch using just a few lines of code excited him and served as a motivation to further explore the world of technology.
Reflecting on his participation in the program, Somagaca expressed his enthusiasm for Python, a widely used programming language that has broadened his skill set in information technology. He described the SIC program as easy to use and enjoyable, emphasizing its transformative effect on his problem-solving abilities. Somagaca believes that the program has added significant value to his life and further reinforced his determination to pursue a career in programming.
Raised by his grandparents alongside his two cousins, Somagaca aims to overcome his humble beginnings and make a positive impact while inspiring others. His experience in the SIC program has been nothing short of amazing, and he was particularly drawn to it due to its association with a prominent technology brand like Samsung.
Samsung, through strategic partnerships with higher learning institutions, offers the SIC program, characterized by its low-volume and high-impact approach. The courses offered include Coding and Programming, Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Big Data. Currently, Samsung has partnered with Walter Sisulu University in the Eastern Cape and the Central University of Technology in the Free State, selecting students for the programme and providing training and assessment aligned with the global brand’s content.
Beyond programming skills, Somagaca also acquired other valuable proficiencies through the SIC, including collaboration, data analysis, and critical thinking. He developed a solid understanding of computer applications such as Microsoft Office, gained insights into business processes, learned to utilize technology to solve problems, and honed his research and communication skills, all of which will be beneficial in his professional career.
Presently pursuing an advanced diploma in IT, Somagaca credits the SIC for enhancing his practical skills and believes they will prove invaluable in his future work. The program has broadened his thinking and instilled a meticulous approach to problem-solving. Furthermore, it has taught him the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
