The City of Johannesburg's Department of Economic Development (DED) joined the MTN SA Foundation, Afrika Tikkun and Datacomb Development Hubs to celebrate the graduation of 55 young people from a digital skills development programme. The graduates completed training aimed at equipping them with digital and technology related skills that can strengthen their prospects in an increasingly digital economy.

Afrika Tikkun Operations Manager Makwena Ramoroka highlighted the importance of partnerships in responding to youth unemployment and creating sustainable opportunities for young people.

He said the partnership with MTN had grown over several years, including support for a computer laboratory established to help young people develop digital skills.

“As leaders, we exist to solve problems. Moving from simply providing support to young people to asking what more we can do is critical. The challenge of youth unemployment requires us to work together and find practical solutions," said Ramoroka.

City of Johannesburg's acting Director: Economic Development Facilitation, Benji Seitlhamo, congratulated the graduates and emphasised the City's commitment to partnerships that create opportunities for young people.

He said programmes such as the digital skills initiative aligned with the City's broader efforts to build a smart, digitally enabled city while creating opportunities for young people to participate in the economy.

The City also highlighted its network of Opportunity Centres, which provide young people with access to information and services, including employment and skills-development opportunities. The City has also introduced a mobile Opportunity Centre to extend these services to communities where permanent facilities may not be readily accessible.

One of the graduates, Sipho Tshabalala, said hard work and determination were key to completing the programme. He said he had completed 151 modules, which required sacrifices along the way, but remained committed to building a brighter future.

“With AI taking over and changing the world of work, I believe the future is bright. Being armed with a digital skills course gives us an opportunity to prepare ourselves for digital jobs and the changing demands of the workplace," said Tshabalala.

Richard Broeke, Managing Director of Securicom, shared his own journey into the information technology and cybersecurity sector. He encouraged graduates to recognise the opportunities available in cybersecurity and other technology-related fields, while emphasising the importance of continuous learning.

“Skills and habits can help prevent cyberattacks. You are now equipped with skills that can make a difference in your workplaces, communities and families," said Broeke.

The graduation ceremony demonstrated the value of collaboration between government, the private sector and civil society in expanding access to skills development and economic opportunities for young people.

Written by Zingiswa Mndayi
02/10/2026

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