“MTN Group Procurement (GP) is in the process of gathering data that will assist in measuring the success of this learning solution.”

However, the impact of their newly acquired knowledge is already visible, even before they graduate, Ristovich told delegates at the SmartProcurement World Conference.

GP’s objective is to elevate the role and profile of procurement to a supply chain management position at an executive level.

Commerce Edge Academy (CEA) is facilitating a corporate education programme to the MTN group, based on Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) procurement qualifications.

CEA’s proprietary Tutor Enabled Blended Learning Online Support (TEBLOS) student support system provides MTN’s students with the manageability of self-study plus online support and revision tutorials via video conferencing.

TEBLOS guides students through the 20 study sessions contained in the official CIPS Course books.

“The work I have completed towards my CIPS level four has enhanced my work. I have gained confidence and take up challenges eagerly when they come in. TEBLOS is very interesting, I enjoy the quizzes and how the system tests a student’s understanding capacity,” said Peruth Ntegeka, MTN Uganda.

To further support GP’s objective, MTN Academy has rolled out a Total Cost of Ownership E-learning solution developed by Commerce Edge.

TEBLOS provides students with a virtual classroom experience, enabling them to learn directly from their professional counterparts in other parts of the world; and it enhances student’s chances of excelling in the CIPS examinations, says Dr Ernst van Biljon, CEA Director.

MTN students in particular have an opportunity to be part of the bigger MTN CIPS TEBLOS Students Social Network (MCTSSN) by participating in the TEBLOS study forum by doing the knowledge quizzes hosted on the TEBLOS system, concluded Ristovich.