Cisco, in partnership with advanced network solutions and learning provider NIL, has launched Project 525, a flagship curriculum programme that helps IT and network professionals achieve the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification. The programme was officially launched on 1 March.
“Project 525 aims to take South Africa’s networking capabilities to the next level. With the help of our trusted learning partners, Cisco is bridging the gap between knowledge and skills and offering the learning and certification pathways that our industry professionals need,” said Conrad Steyn, Chief Technology Officer at Cisco.
Confronting the digital skills gap
Conceived by Martin Camp, Managing Director of NIL Data SA, and brought to life by NIL and Cisco, Project 525 takes Cisco Certified Network Professionals (CCNPs) through the practical application and learning that is required for them to achieve CCIE certification.
The programme aims to train and certify 500 CCIE professionals by the end of 2025. By that time, it’s estimated that 97 million new jobs will have been created globally, thanks to advances in technology and automation.
“South Africa faces a shortage of sought-after certified technology skillsets. We must prioritise addressing this shortage with programmes such as Project 525. The project condenses years of hands-on technical experience into a streamlined, comprehensive learning process supported by the world’s leading network solutions provider,” Camp explained.
One of the most coveted and prestigious technical certifications, the CCIE distinguishes the most talented and capable internetworking professionals worldwide. The latest CCIE curriculum enables engineers to gain a thorough understanding of networks and how network infrastructure serves as the backbone of any organisation.
A strategic partner of Cisco since 1992 NIL helped Cisco deliver its CCIE 360 programme in 2018. Project 525 delivers the best of the 360 programme through e-learning, workshops, and regular mentoring sessions. Participants are continually assessed throughout the learning process.
“Candidates must invest their time and money in the course, which is not something that should be taken lightly. In return, CCIE certification positions them as skilled professionals desired by organisations worldwide,” Camp added.
Through NIL’s partnership with the Institute of Chartered IT Professionals (ICITP), CCIE-certified professionals are recognised as practising at a professional level. Candidates who successfully achieve the CCIE certification will also be registered with the ICITP as an ITP(SA) Information Technology Professional.
Unlocking potential
Project 525 is one of several initiatives Cisco has undertaken to provide digital skills training and certification in South Africa and around the world.
Earlier this year, Cisco announced it will provide digital skills training to 10 million people across the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region during the next decade. This forms part of the company’s ambition to empower 25 million people with digital skills via the Cisco Networking Academy.
Having just celebrated its 25th anniversary, the academy has taught more than 1.5 million students, including 466,000 women, in 52 countries across Africa. In South Africa, the academy has trained more than 189,272 students. Cisco has also launched four EDGE centres across the country to help communities develop digital skills and improve people’s employability.
“Digital skills training is not a one-time consideration. Neither does it take a single form. Initiatives such as the Cisco Networking Academy, and now Project 525, show that Cisco is committed to providing many types of training. By supporting those who are just starting on their digital skills journey, and those who are working to reach the height of theirs, we are helping South Africa make the most of a digital future,” concluded Steyn.
For more information on Project 525, visit nil.co.za/nil-cisco-project-525.
