IT professionals across Africa log on to better careers, thanks to computer-based testing
Remaining in a position unreflective of his certifications and skills was not an option for Systems Engineer Dan Wanjohi. Having spent years planning a career in IT, it wasn’t until the 24-year-old pursued industry-specific certification through computer-based testing (CBT) that his dreams started to become reality.
Passing internationally renowned IT exams at Nairobi-based Computer Pride, a testing partner of Pearson VUE, has enabled Dan to obtain industry-recognised certifications. As a Cisco Certified Network Associate, Network Professional and Security Professional, he has landed a top job with a leading provider of integrated business and technology solutions across Africa.
Dan, who lives in the Kenyan capital, said: “Certification has changed my life. Not only has it allowed me to demonstrate my capabilities and knowledge, it has given me greater confidence inside and outside of the workplace. The more certifications I gained, the more driven I became to secure a higher paid position with added responsibility. Being able to sit computer-based exams at a local centre was a big advantage. Not only did it mean my journey was short and convenient, I did not have to spend time planning my route at the expense of preparing for exams”.
Dan’s story is typical of how African IT workers are seeking out CBT examinations to add value to their existing employers and further their careers. In 2010, Pearson VUE increased the number of computer-based exams delivered via its pan-Africa test centre partnerships by 33%, while developing its testing network by 20%. It also extended its catalogue of exams by 19%, compared to the previous year. Pearson VUE currently has more than 260 CBT centre partners across Africa.
As implied, CBT sees candidates undertake exams using a computer, as opposed to the traditional method of paper and pencil. Recent years have seen CBT become a highly effective, popular and globally embraced form of assessment. Those using CBT – including organisations, government bodies and educational establishments – have reaped its many benefits. Flexible delivery, international reach and robust security measures have established CBT as the most dependable way to ensure certification remains meaningful.
Dan added: “I secured my first IT job in October 2008 as an End User Trainer in a Nairobi college. Although the role provided me with a good learning experience and reaffirmed my desire for a career in IT, I realised that I did not want to stay in the position for an extended period of time. While occupying the post, I used my free time to study for my Cisco Certified Network Associate certification. Having spent 18 months at the college and obtained the certification, I assumed the role of Intern Engineer before my promotion to Systems Engineer.”
Having climbed the career ladder at an impressive pace, Dan has not ruled out undertaking more computer-based exams in the future. If he does, he will be joined by an increasing number of candidates and professionals – all looking for that competitive advantage in their respective job markets.
In 2010, Pearson VUE witnessed an annual increase of 27% in the number of computer-based IT exams it delivered to candidates and professionals worldwide.
Cyrus Riobah is another IT professional whose life has been improved thanks to CBT. The 32-year-old from Nairobi is a Field Engineer and has obtained multiple Cisco certifications.
The proud father of one commented: “My current role has motivated me to pursue an area of IT for which I have long held a passion – wireless. Fortunately for me, my manager at Circuit Business Systems shares this passion. I could not have pursued this path without certification. Computer-based testing has most definitely changed my life for the better”.
The former IT Officer continues to add professional accomplishments and industry certifications to his impressive CV – and he is not alone. The certifications which Dan, Cyrus and thousands of other African citizens have obtained would not have been possible if it wasn’t for Pearson VUE’s partnership with test centres throughout the continent. As the CBT business of Pearson, the world’s leading education company, Pearson VUE’s Africa-wide partnership network ensures that candidates and professionals do not have to travel excessive distances in order to sit an exam and pursue career progression.
Stephen Eliovson, Pearson VUE, Business Development Manager for Africa, said: “Africa has a rapidly growing appreciation for CBT. The emphasis is now on the region’s education providers, governmental bodies and key employers to make certification available to citizens and potential workforce candidates across the continent. This will allow more Africans to secure the roles they desire and establish better lives for them and their families”.
He continued: “In addition to IT, industries such as engineering, finance, healthcare and mining, as well as key services such as transportation, all stand to reap the many benefits of CBT. Implementation will allow organisations to boost their income potential through higher levels of employee skills, leading to improved perception of their overall capabilities, by offering dependable and respected certification. As proven by Dan and Cyrus, CBT advances careers. Its use also generates financial contributions to national and regional economies”.
Pearson VUE delivered over eight million tests to candidates worldwide in 2010 through its global network of over 5,000 centres.