Empowering Africa’s Next Generation of Connectivity Experts
FOBulous: Boosting Fiber Optics Deployment Quality in Africa through intensive training
NETIS has always aimed to actively contribute to the digital development of Africa. One of the key ways to achieve this goal is by training local talents and ensuring continuous skill development within its teams. It is with this vision in mind that FOBulous, an internal Fiber Optics Bootcamp, was created fiber optics training program, was created.
NETIS Group launched the first edition of the program later in 2024 when Rwanda hosted the project’s first launch. This launch was a resounding success, with 44 technicians trained during 5 days, combining concepts on fiber optics, infrastructure, and practice on fiber optics ISP deployment hat combined theory and practice. This program, designed entirely in-house by UNINET, the Group’s training center, aimed to equip technicians with cutting-edge expertise in fiber optics, with a particular focus on safety, service quality, and FTTx deployment methodologies.
The results were highly positive, not only in terms of the skills acquired by the technicians but also in terms of the impact on the fiber optic deployment in the region, further strengthening NETIS’ ommitment to high-quality connectivity across Africa.
FOBulous Arrives in Benin: The Logical Next Step
Building on its initial launch, FOBulous travelled to NETIS Benin as part of planning for a new client fiber optics rollout. From March 24 to April 4, 2025 Beninese technicians had the opportunity to benefit from this high-level training. 30 technicians, including 3 women, were trained over the course of two weeks, enhancing their expertise in fiber optics.
The organization of this training in Benin was made possible thanks to several months of careful preparation and seamless coordination between the teams at NETIS Benin and UNINET. The training was conducted in a structured environment, with modules covering all aspects related to fiber optic deployment, in inside (ISP)
The Training Content: A Comprehensive and Practical Approach
The FOBulous program is more than just theoretical instruction; it is an immersive journey that combines in-depth technical knowledge with real-world practical application. At the core of the program, the modules cover everything from the basics of fiber optics, various connector types, and GPON infrastructure, to customer rollouts to fiber optic networks, splicing and network maintenance methodologies. They also cover the safety rules module: NETIS’ life-saving rules, PPE, poles, ladders, and equipment inspection, as well as fiber optics supervisors’ roles and responsibilities. The modules also cover the crucial Code of Client Service where technicians are taught how to act and behave appropriately in front of customers.
A Program with Far-Reaching Impact
The impact of FOBulous goes well beyond technical training. By investing in the skill development of its local teams, NETIS is directly contributing to the acceleration of fiber optic deployment in Benin. This ensures access to reliable, high-quality connectivity for both businesses and individuals, supporting the country’s digital growth.
But beyond the technical aspect, this program also strengthens local skills while promoting the role of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors. With 3 women trained in this first cohort in Benin, FOBulous also stands as an inclusive project that reflects diversity.
A Growing Program
The success of the first FOBulous edition in Benin is a clear sign of the program’s impact on the digital transformation of the continent. After starting in Rwanda and expanding to Benin, FOBulous will soon be extended to other NETIS subsidiaries across Africa. The goal is to establish this program as a true benchmark for fiber optics training on the continent.
