Huawei Technologies Rwanda has concluded its Huawei ICT Competition 2024-2025 roadshow, an initiative designed to nurture ICT talent and strengthen collaboration between academia and the technology industry. The Huawei ICT Competition is a global programme aimed at inspiring young talent to excel in ICT through structured training, industry-level exposure, and competitions, all while driving digital transformation. ALSO READ: Rwandan students scoop second place in global ICT competition With the theme “Connection, Glory, Future” and the slogan “I. C. The Future,” this year’s competition brings together governments, higher education institutions, training organisations, and industry enterprises to foster a thriving ICT talent ecosystem. The roadshow covered universities across Rwanda, engaging students and lecturers with insights about the competition and encouraging participation. Beyond fostering participation, the Huawei ICT Competition also offers many benefits. They include: Promoting ICT skills The competition motivates students to pursue ICT education and provides them with a platform to showcase their skills on a global stage. Through hands-on challenges in advanced technologies like AI, cloud computing, and 5G, participants gain essential skills for the future workforce. By tackling real-world problems, the competition fosters innovation and creativity while exposing participants to cutting-edge trends and demands in the tech industry. Building a global ICT community The program connects students, educators, and industry professionals worldwide, building a collaborative ICT community that shares knowledge and ideas. By showcasing young talent, the competition inspires more students to explore technology-related careers, advancing STEM education globally. ALSO READ: Rwandan students take part in Huawei digital talent camp in China Career opportunities and industry exposure For high achievers, Huawei offers internships, career opportunities, and exposure to leading tech companies. This helps participants gain meaningful connections and boosts their professional development. The initiative also strengthens the ICT workforce by identifying and nurturing top talent critical for future technological progress. Benefits for participants Participants in the competition receive fully sponsored training in advanced fields, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Computing, Big Data, 5G, Cybersecurity, and the Internet of Things (IoT). They also earn globally recognised Huawei certifications, enhancing their employability locally and internationally. The program emphasises hands-on experience, allowing participants to engage with real-world ICT scenarios and industry leaders. These interactions pave the way for valuable career collaborations and future opportunities. The competition further strengthens partnerships between Huawei and local universities, promoting collaboration in research, innovation, and ICT infrastructure development. ALSO READ: 20 students selected for Huawei ICT competition Registration and competition tracks Students can register for one of three competition tracks:The Network Track, covering Data Communication Networks, WLAN, Routing & Switching, and Network Security, the Cloud Track, focusing on Cloud Computing, Big Data, and AI and the Computing Track, which includes Cloud and Server Operating Systems, Database Management Systems, and Kunpeng architecture. Winners from the national preliminaries and final exams will advance to the regional phase of the competition. Top performers receive prizes, certifications, and potential job or internship opportunities with Huawei and its ICT partners. Seeds for the Future programme Complementing the competition is Huawei’s flagship corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, Seeds for the Future. This initiative fosters talent, innovation, and sustainable development in the ICT sector by providing university students with unique learning opportunities. Participants enhance their knowledge through training and hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, preparing them for careers in telecommunications and ICT. The programme also boosts local ICT ecosystems by empowering young people to drive innovation in their communities. Through collaboration and cultural exchange, Seeds for the Future connects participants globally, encouraging teamwork and knowledge sharing. The programme further supports sustainable economic growth by creating skilled professionals ready to shape the future of ICT.