Wikus van der Merwe is a highly respected authority in ICT and Human Capital Development, with over 30 years of experience shaping industry standards and workforce capabilities. His expertise spans leadership development, strategic workforce planning, and ICT technology management.

Wikus holds a Master’s degree in Human Capital Development from the University of Johannesburg and has further strengthened his leadership acumen through the Executive Leadership Program at GIBS. His qualifications are complemented by various technical ICT certifications, ensuring he remains at the forefront of industry advancements.

As a former leader at Telkom SA, one of South Africa’s largest ICT companies, Wikus spearheaded the ICT Training Centre, playing a pivotal role in the company’s technology and capability transition. His expertise extends beyond corporate environments—he worked closely with the South African Government’s Department of Communication, leading the Joint Initiative for Priority Skills Acquisition (JIPSA). Through this initiative, over 1,000 unemployed ICT graduates secured permanent roles in the private sector, reinforcing his impact on national workforce development.

Wikus’s influence extends beyond South Africa, as he is a registered consultant with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO). He has delivered expert papers on human capacity building projects in several countries, including South Korea, the UK, Canada, Botswana, and Zambia. His thought leadership in ICT training and workforce development has shaped policies and strategies at an international level.

Recognised for his expertise in E-Health and Telemedicine, Wikus was appointed by the ITU as the lead training consultant for a pilot program in Telemedicine for the Ministry of Health and Childcare in Zimbabwe. His contributions have helped revolutionize healthcare technology, bridging gaps in medical accessibility through ICT-driven solutions.