South Africa bets youth on AI future
South Africa’s Digital Skills for Jobs and Income II program aims to prepare young people for careers in artificial intelligence and technology through free training and certification. The German-backed initiative targets unemployed youth, women and people with disabilities who face barriers to entering the digital economy.
The program offers courses in areas such as cybersecurity, data analysis, software development and cloud computing. GIZ implements the project with South Africa’s Department of Communications and Digital Technologies through technical colleges across the country.
Microsoft Elevate provides funding for certification exams that range from basic Azure credentials to advanced data science qualifications. The partnership connects students with tools and resources designed to reduce inequality in access to digital education.
Officials say the program supports South Africa’s economic development by matching training with job market needs. The initiative creates pathways for participants to find work or start businesses in technology sectors shaped by artificial intelligence.
