WIOCC calls for stronger talent pipeline to sustain global submarine cable growth
Date: 2026-04-17
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
international submarine cable industry must intensify efforts to build a
sustainable talent pipeline to support the future of global digital
connectivity, according to IOCC Group.
Speaking at the 2026 ICPC Plenary event, Douglas
Njenga, Director of Regulatory and Strategic Affairs at WIOCC, emphasized the
importance of structured talent development across the subsea ecosystem, from
early awareness and academic alignment to practical industry pathways.
He noted that addressing growing demand in the sector
requires a deliberate focus on preparing the next generation of professionals,
including engineers and project leaders, with expanded opportunities for
emerging markets, particularly in Africa.
Njenga highlighted the need for
stronger collaboration between industry and academia to ensure that skills
development keeps pace with rapid infrastructure expansion driven by surging
global data demand.
He added
that sustained investment in people will be essential to maintaining and
scaling the submarine cable systems that underpin international connectivity
and digital growth.
