Huawei ICT competition hailed as platform for Botswanan students' skills development

Cecil Masiga, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Innovation, speaks at the Botswana stage of Huawei ICT competition in Gaborone, Botswana, March 5, 2026. The information and communication technology (ICT) competition sponsored by Chinese telecoms firm Huawei was hailed on Thursday as a platform for Botswanan students to benchmark their skills against internationally recognized frameworks. (Xinhua/Tshekiso Tebalo)

GABORONE, March 5 (Xinhua) -- The information and communication technology (ICT) competition sponsored by Chinese telecoms firm Huawei was hailed on Thursday as a platform for Botswanan students to benchmark their skills against internationally recognized frameworks.

Cecil Masiga, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Innovation, made the remarks at the event in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, to recognize 12 local students from the University of Botswana, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, and Botswana Accountancy College for advancing to the southern African regional stage of the competition.

He highlighted the importance of building strong digital capabilities among Botswana's youth as the country advances its digital transformation agenda.

"Developing local digital talent is essential as Botswana continues to build a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy," Masiga said. "Initiatives such as the Huawei ICT Competition provide valuable opportunities for students to gain practical exposure to emerging technologies and to strengthen the skills required for the digital future."

Huawei Botswana Managing Director Li Dalu said the competition plays an important role in bridging the gap between academic learning and the practical skills required in the global technology industry.

He reaffirmed Huawei Botswana's commitment to working closely with government and academic institutions to support ICT skills development and strengthen the country's digital talent ecosystem.

The 12 students will proceed to the regional stage of the competition, where they will compete for a place in the global finals. ■