Cape Town: The Corporate Services Directorate of the City of Cape Town continues to invest in the future of young professionals through its Graduate Internship Programme and strategic digital transformation initiatives such as the Corporate Application Refresh (CAR) programme. It empowers graduates to turn academic excellence into real-world impact.
One such success story is that of Callan Van Wyk, a Cape Town-born graduate whose journey from Elsies River classrooms to the Information Systems and Technology (IS&T) Department of the city showcased the life-changing potential of these programmes.
Callan Van Wyk attended De Vrije Zee Primary and Parow High School before pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics and Applied Statistics at the University of Cape Town. His studies were driven by a passion for science and discovery, and focused on understanding the universe, from planetary systems to galaxies while at the same time, he equipped highly transferable skills.
Van Wyk stated, “My area of study builds up skills in the modelling of complex systems, data analysis, experiment design, critical thinking, problem solving, communicating technical ideas, and teamwork.”
Despite his strong academic background, like many other graduates, Van Wyk faced the challenge of entering the job market. His breakthrough came through the City’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), where he gained valuable workplace exposure within the Water and Sanitation Department.
This experience laid the foundation for his next step, i.e. applying for an internship within the City’s IS&T Department after spotting an online opportunity linked to the CAR programme.
The Corporate Application Refresh (CAR) programme is a key strategic initiative, which aims at modernising the City’s digital systems, ensuring efficient, integrated service delivery for residents. Through CAR, the City is redesigning and upgrading its core application environment, laying the groundwork for future-ready service delivery.
Wyk highlighted that, “many of the skills he gained through his BSc in Astrophysics and Applied Statistics at UCT are directly applicable. Here he is talking about analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills that play a major part in CAR and he strongly believes his skills are being put to good use.”
At present, Van Wyk has progressed into a permanent role as an Assistant Systems Analyst within the City of Cape Town’s IS&T Application Architecture team and is contributing to the City’s long-term digital vision.
Considering this, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Corporate Services – Alderman Theresa Uys stated that one of the things that she cannot emphasise enough is that the City of Cape Town is a City of Hope. It is a City that strives to employ the best talent out there.
Uys added that they are building careers and shaping futures. The City should and does strive to be on par with corporate recruiters. All of this to ensure that they have the best possible talent to service the residents and visitors.
The City’s Graduate Internship Programme is designed to provide work experience, and especially to build a pipeline of skilled professionals who can contribute meaningfully to public service and innovation. Uys said that she hopes Callan’s journey with the City will inspire and encourage other young graduates to take advantage of these opportunities that they advertise regularly.