LIS celebrates Digital Literacy milestone with End-User Computing certificate recipients
The NWU People and Culture, Learning and Development department invited staff in Peromnes 13 to 18 to participate in the End-User Computing (EUC) leadership program. The program, coordinated by the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre and funded by SETA, aims to enhance computer literacy skills. The EUC program provided participants with essential training in basic computing and software applications. This included operating systems like Windows, Linux, and macOS, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office products. A particular focus was placed on mastering data management tools such as Excel and Google Sheets, with in-depth training on navigating the complexities of Excel, a skill many participants initially found challenging.
The program was not without its hurdles. Participants attended three-hour sessions every Tuesday and Thursday over 32 weeks, submitting assessments each Monday. While many found the workload demanding, they expressed gratitude for the supportive and patient facilitator who accommodated delays caused by work constraints.
The initiative underlined the growing importance of computer literacy in the digital age, particularly in the library and information services (LIS) sector. The programme equipped library staff with skills to better support users, offer computer literacy training, and reduce overreliance on IT departments. This aligns with the evolving demands of a digital workplace, where adaptability and technical proficiency are critical.
A celebratory certification ceremony held on 10 October 2024 at Recs Hall, Mahikeng Campus, marked the successful completion of the program and honoured the perseverance of the participants. Distinguished attendees included Prof Sonia Swanepoel, DVC for Community Engagement and Campus Operations, Ms Helen Lekalakala, Director of Talent Management and Organisational Development and various senior managers.
In her address, Ms Lekalakala emphasised the division’s commitment to staff development, urging line managers to ensure that participants have computers or laptops to continue practising their newfound skills. Prof Swanepoel lauded certificate recipients' dedication and underscored the necessity of continuous upskilling in today’s dynamic work environment. Ms Makola echoed this sentiment, highlighting the critical role of technology adaptation in modern workplaces. Ms Kekana, responding to Ms Lekalakala's call, shared that the LIS was proactive in equipping staff with laptops and offering opportunities to purchase refurbished devices.
Representing the certificate recipients, Mr Itumeleng Kolodi and Ms Marolay Van Der Walt delivered heartfelt speeches. They reflected on their challenges and expressed appreciation to People and Culture for this growth opportunity. Their sentiments resonated with the ceremony’s overarching theme of professional development and resilience. Ms Lungile Dlamini, speaking on behalf of line managers at the Potchefstroom ceremony on 17 October, emphasised the importance of nurturing talent to unlock professional and personal potential.
She congratulated the certificate recipients and thanked NWU management and all who supported the program. The EUC learnership program stands as a testament to NWU’s commitment to equipping its workforce with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape. The event highlighted the crucial role played by People and Culture (Talent Management and Organisational Development) in developing and nurturing staff.
Comments from certificate recipients:
While it was challenging to balance End user training , work, and my studies at UNISA. I am grateful I was able to start and finish the training.
I learnt a lot from and now I can merge documents , I can work with Excel and also I can now prepare a presentation using PowerPoint.
The training also provided a platform to interact with colleagues from all 3 campuses. It was a great experience. I hope more colleagues will use the opportunity to improve their skills. I also hope that there will be other opportunities like this one so that we can equip ourselves in the ever-changing world. – Sifiso Luthuli
Contributors: Ms Molly Kekana, Ms Kholofelo Makola, Ms Lungile Dlamini, Ms Carine Basson, Mr Tebane Khoza, Wilna Fick & Mr Ntobeko Sikhakhane