Maidenhead, UK – 30 April 2013 – Embarcadero Technologies, a leading provider of software solutions for application and database development, is working with schools in South Africa to support their technology and resource needs. During 12 – 13 April 2013, the company held an exciting workshop for Grade 11 – 12 IT students at Noorderland High School in Limpopo Province to expose students to the multi-device platform software development trend along with the relevance and functionality of the Delphi language in this context. In addition, topics of the national CAPS (Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement) were also covered. Over 200 students and teachers from schools across the Limpopo Province participated in the workshop.

“Exposing pupils from a diverse set of backgrounds to the opportunities in the ICT sector is crucial to encouraging them to take up further ICT studies,” said Bertie (A) Buitendag, Lecturer, Department of Computer Science, Faculty of ICT, Tshwane University of Technology. “Delphi is an excellent programming language for teaching and one of the most popular in the world for software development. The training was very valuable to the participating pupils and teachers. It was heartening to see students’ natural talent come to the fore along with their enthusiasm to learn and excel when provided with the right stimulus and tools. We need companies like Embarcadero to help us meet our education objectives and boost our learners’ interest and confidence in the ICT sector.”

All teachers attending the workshop received the Embarcadero Delphi 2010 compiler, an integrated development environment for software applications. This will enable them to teach the ICT curriculum using a tool that is considered to be current technology in the software development industry. Familiarity with the software will give students confidence and a head start in the ICT profession when they enter the workforce in the future.

“There is a phenomenal drive towards ICT education in South Africa at all levels – right from government, universities through to schools and students,” commented Glenn Wylie, Director of Sales - Africa, at Embarcadero. “The dedication of both students and teachers is commendable and we are committed to leveraging our knowledge and resources to support the educational community in achieving its goals.”

Embarcadero is actively working with schools, academic institutions and government organisations to provide the latest software programming tools including Delphi® and C++ Builder® to facilitate delivery of the ICT curriculum.  Embarcadero is also assisting academic institutions with the development of ICT course material and curriculum in nine of the 12 South African provinces.

Schools and academic institutions interested in engaging with Embarcadero can contact the company via [email protected].