MTN launches Early Talent Development Program to empower female students and individuals with disabilities in South Sudan

MTN South Sudan has officially launched its Early Talent Development Program, an initiative aimed at engaging and empowering female students and individuals with disabilities from local universities across the country. The comprehensive program seeks to recruit, develop, and fast-track top graduates and students from three major institutions: the University of Juba, John Garang University, and Rumbek University. The focus is on building a talent pipeline that will not only strengthen MTN’s workforce but also contribute to the broader development of South Sudan's emerging professionals.

The launch event was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Gabriel Changson Chang, who formally inaugurated the program. Other distinguished guests included John Chol Dau, Director-General of Vocational Training at the Ministry of Labor; Napoleon Adok, Director-General of the National Communications Authority; Professor Abraham Matoc Dhal, Vice-Chancellor of John Garang University; and Professor Robert Mayom, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Juba. MTN's executive committee, led by CEO Monzer Ali and other senior leaders, were also present to mark this important milestone.

In his remarks, Minister Changson Chang noted the significance of the Early Talent Development Program in supporting the next generation of leaders, particularly in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). "This program represents a crucial step toward empowering young women and individuals with disabilities to excel in the rapidly evolving digital economy. We are proud to see MTN take the lead in supporting education and professional development in South Sudan,” he said.

The initiative aims to address the underrepresentation of women and individuals with disabilities in STEM fields by providing tailored opportunities for them to gain practical experience, mentorship, and leadership development. MTN's commitment to inclusivity and diversity is at the core of this program, ensuring that talented individuals from all backgrounds have a chance to thrive in the competitive job market.

CEO of MTN South Sudan, Monzer Ali expressed his excitement about the program's potential to shape the future of the country’s telecommunications sector. "At MTN, we believe in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for the youth to build the skills necessary to lead in their chosen fields. The Early Talent Development Program is designed to equip students with the critical skills required for the digital age, particularly in STEM, which is essential for our business sustainability and for the country's economic development,” he stated.

The Early Talent Development Program offers students practical training, internships, and exposure to real-world projects that will help them bridge the gap between academia and industry. By focusing on students pursuing STEM-related degrees, the program aims to build a future-ready workforce that will contribute to the growth of both MTN and South Sudan's digital ecosystem.

The program’s emphasis on developing leadership capabilities and critical skills will also enable MTN to build a pipeline of future leaders who are equipped to meet the challenges of a dynamic telecommunications industry. Through this initiative, MTN aims to not only strengthen its internal talent pool but also create a lasting impact on the communities it serves.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye