Mobile operator MTN Zambia has announced that its Graduate Development Programme (GDP), which aims to empower graduates and prepare them for employment.

According to the telco the eight month rotational programme could enable the graduates to develop their professional and behavioural skills and gain valuable work experience.

Training is expected to involve intensive experiential learning assignments across all MTN Zambia departments, says a press statement.

Graduates are also set to be selected from the University of Zambia, Copperbelt University, Mulungushi University and the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies.

“The MTN Zambia GDP is part of our corporate social investment initiative meant to contribute to the sustainable growth of the business community by contributing to the talent pipeline. It demonstrates MTN Zambia’s pledge to the development of talent in the country," said MTN Zambia chief executive officer Abdul Ismail.

He added, "We recognise that the development of youths especially graduates is key in order to fulfil their potential in the world of work. Our value proposition under the GDP is that the students’ career starts with us. MTN Zambia is confident that Zambia’s students will take up this challenge and make the most of it."

According to telecom sector regulator, the Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA), MTN Zambia is that country's fastest growing network.

The mobile operator has slightly over four million customers, second to Airtel Zambia, which has five million customers. Meanwhile, state-owned Zamtel has just over 1.5 million subscribers.