South Africa Launches Digital Skilling Program to Boost Youth Employment and Inclusion
The program is designed to equip young people — particularly NEET youth, women, and persons with disabilities — with the digital skills needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-powered world.
As digital transformation continues to reshape global economies, the Digital Skills for Jobs and Income II initiative is driving South Africa’s next generation toward a more inclusive and technologically empowered future. The program is designed to equip young people — particularly NEET youth, women, and persons with disabilities — with the digital skills needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-powered world.
Delivered in collaboration with a network of local and international partners, the initiative aligns with South Africa’s broader goals of economic growth, digital inclusion, and sustainable job creation. It offers both introductory and advanced training pathways across AI fluency, digital literacy, cybersecurity, data analytics, software development, cloud computing, and content and multimedia design.
The initiative is commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by GIZ in partnership with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT). Working closely with TVET colleges nationwide, the program provides accessible, industry-aligned digital training that connects learners directly to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
A cornerstone of the initiative is its partnership with Microsoft Elevate, a global program investing in people, institutions, and ideas that ensure AI innovation benefits all. Microsoft Elevate supports educational and workforce partners with tools, research, and funding to help close the digital divide. Through this collaboration, learners gain access to fully funded Microsoft certification vouchers — from beginner-level Azure and AI Fundamentals to advanced Data Scientist and Engineer credentials — providing clear pathways from training to employment.
By linking education with market-driven demand, Digital Skills for Jobs and Income II serves as a model for inclusive digital empowerment. It strengthens South Africa’s position in the digital economy while helping to bridge skill gaps, promote innovation, and create opportunities for sustainable livelihoods in the era of artificial intelligence.
