BIH, IBM train local programmers

In its drive to promote local technology innovations, Botswana Innovation Hub (BIH) in partnership with International Business Machines (IBM) trained local programmers on the new Bluemix cloud platform that allows users to create new applications. Speaking during the IBM Bluemix workshop on Monday, IBM Client Technical Advisor, Pelani Malangi said Bluemix platform integrates high performance cloud infrastructure.

“BlueMix cloud resources bring together multiple data sources, scale systems and incorporate cognitive services to drive business value quickly at low costs,” said Malangi. He explained that the IBM BlueMix platform integrates high-performance cloud infrastructure and cutting-edge services into the IT environment. Malangi also urged the participants to utilise the platform to develop applications for local organisations.

“Each and every organisation or company needs an application to run its business, so this platform is an opportunity for developers and programmers to bring solutions to the business community,” he said. BIH ICT and Marketing Director Tshepo Tsheko said the workshop would help increase competitiveness of ICT industry by promotion of technology transfer and creation of new business opportunities.

He said the use of Bluemix platform will include integrated DevOps to build, run, deploy and manage applications on the cloud. “The IBM BlueMix platform integrates high-performance cloud infrastructure and cutting-edge services into the IT environment,” said Tsheko. Tsheko said through its ICT Cluster BIH aims to increase the competitiveness of ICT industry by supporting local ICT SME growth, promotion of technology transfer and Innovations and creation of new business opportunities through cross-border, cross-industry and cross-cluster collaboration using ICT as an enabler.

The cluster offers an open community workspace where innovation, technology, entrepreneurship and investment exist to facilitate the development and growth of innovative technology ideas that will ultimately bear social and economic benefits to Botswana, regionally and internationally.