Cisco donation boosts TUT ICT practical training and industry readiness

A donation of Cisco equipment strengthens hands-on training and prepares TUT ICT students for real-world network environments.

Dr Tshimangadzho Tshilongamulenzhe Prof Topside Mathonsi, Head of the Department of Information Technology at the Tshwane University of Technology, says the major donation of Cisco networking equipment is strengthening practical training and industry readiness for ICT students.

The Faculty of Information and Communication Technology received the equipment from Adnexus Celerity Networks Pty Ltd as part of the company’s technology refresh programme. The donation was coordinated by Dr Tshimangadzo Tshilongamulenzhe and Prof Mathonsi from the Department of Information Technology.

The donation includes enterprise-level devices, including Cisco Catalyst 6504 units, a Cisco 7604 router and Cisco Catalyst 6509 series switches. The equipment will be integrated into the department’s laboratories, giving students direct access to real networking infrastructure.

Mathonsi says the equipment will strengthen teaching and learning by allowing students to develop practical skills in networking, routing, switching and cybersecurity. He thanked the company and its representative, Mpere Kobe, for supporting ICT education.

The initiative is part of a broader collaboration between the Department of Information Technology and ICT Services to support Work-Integrated Learning. The partnership started in 2024 and focuses on providing students with relevant industry exposure.

According to Tshimangadzo Tshilongamulenzhe, senior Lecturer, the department works closely with partners to ensure the programme remains sustainable and aligned with industry needs. She said the goal is to create opportunities for students to apply theory in real-world environments.

The donation was made without expectation of financial benefit, which reflects the company’s commitment to developing digital skills in South Africa.

The Faculty said industry partnerships remain critical as technology evolves. Through collaboration with companies such as Adnexus Celerity Networks, it continues to expand practical training and prepare graduates for careers in networking and cybersecurity.

TUT and Adnexus Celerity Networks Staf. Dr Tshimangadzho Tshilongamulenzhe