The Department of Social Development (DSD), working alongside Africa Beyond the Fourth Industrial Revolution (AB4IR) and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, launched a six-month Digital Skills and Entrepreneurship Training Programme at the eThekwini TVET College Asherville Campus in KwaZulu-Natal. Significantly, this initiative signals a positive shift in youth development strategies, as it now focuses more on digital innovation than on traditional employment avenues.
Targeting NEET Youth Through Skills Development
Specifically designed for 50 young participants from the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), the programme targets those who are Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET). With support from the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET), each participant receives a laptop, a monthly stipend, and access to structured training. Notably, the training leads to an NQF Level 4 qualification in IT Systems Development. Moreover, AB4IR, in collaboration with Tshwane South and eThekwini TVET Colleges, ensures the delivery remains industry-relevant and learner-focused.
Bridging Welfare and Economic Participation
Importantly, the programme bridges the gap between social welfare support and long-term economic inclusion. Instead of simply offering short-term relief, it provides youth with practical digital tools that foster self-reliance and economic participation. According to Dez Jason from DSD’s Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, this approach represents a strategic evolution in how the department addresses youth unemployment.Read more here
“We cannot fight youth unemployment with outdated tools. We must equip young people with future-ready skills that allow them to participate meaningfully in the digital economy and ultimately become job creators in their own right,” he emphasized.
Transforming Dreams into Digital Reality
So far, participants have responded positively. For instance, 27-year-old Luluma Ceme from Pinetown views the course as a steppingstone to aligning her passion with technical expertise.
“I’m a creative person and a gender-based violence activist. I’ve always wanted to develop an app that helps vulnerable children report abuse quickly and safely. This course is helping me build the technical skills to turn that dream into reality,” she explained.
Turning Tech Skills into Business Opportunities
Similarly, Sibusiso Bele (26) from Bluff, Durban, sees the programme as a gateway to launch his entrepreneurial ambitions.
“I’ve always been interested in IT. Learning computer literacy and digital tools could help me start a business and even support a side hustle in music,” he said confidently.
Likewise, 33-year-old Khanisani Terrence Phewa believes the skills gained will help him create social change.
“I enjoy working with people. With the digital skills I’m gaining, I hope to develop an app that supports GBV victims. I also want to share my knowledge and train others in my community,” he noted.
From Coding to Community Impact
The curriculum offers a blend of both technical and entrepreneurial training. It includes app and web development, Java programming, game design, and financial literacy. Consequently, learners are not only building marketable skills but also gaining tools to develop sustainable ventures. Furthermore, the programme aligns with the EPWP’s Pathway Model, which promotes movement from short-term public work to longer-term economic opportunities.
A Vision for Inclusive Digital Growth
To ensure accountability and long-term success, the DSD’s Monitoring and Evaluation Unit is actively tracking the programmes progress. Insights gathered will inform potential national rollout plans. Ultimately, this initiative represents more than just a training opportunity it reflects a national vision of youth as creators, innovators, and leaders in South Africa’s digital future.
Therefore, as the programme unfolds, it reaffirms the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and digital equity. By investing in young people, South Africa is taking a decisive step toward ensuring no one is left behind in the transition to a knowledge-based economy.
