By Tsepa Ramoriting, Managing Director, Bula Solutions 

Due to South Africa's apartheid legacy, it is the duty of established and emerging companies, to take a responsible view towards socio-economic upliftment in our country. For example, companies need to utilise their experience, knowledge and resources to rigorously support and nurture aspiring professionals from previously disadvantaged communities through the creation of opportunities in the IT sector. However, this does not mean that they should appoint professionals purely because they want to fill up their equity quota and use the employee to gain the 'right' public profile or to attempt to get BEE-required deals.

Gone are the days when black professionals were appointed because of the colour of their skin. Today, companies across the board look at skills and qualifications. Companies have come to realise that to survive in today's competitive environment, it is pointless to keep an employee on the payroll purely because of their skin colour.

Many black professionals, including BULA, are choosing to open up our businesses. Purely because we believe in our skills and qualifications and that we can make a difference to the IT industry, and contribute to the economy of the country.As a truly BEE (Black Economic Empowerment) IT Solutions provider, BULA appoints professionals purely because of their skills and qualifications, preference is however given to Previously Disadvantaged Individuals (PDI's). The nature of the fast evolving IT industry requires that a technology companies' workforce have the best skills and qualifications in order to service customers - as well as to build a strong industry.