1. Executive Summary
SayPro (SayPro International Development Institute), in partnership with global consulting leader Accenture, has launched a groundbreaking initiative to provide Data Capturing training to 50 individuals from South African townships. This initiative addresses the critical need for digital skills development and job readiness in communities often excluded from mainstream economic opportunities.
By focusing on township-based youth and unemployed adults, the programme aims to bridge the digital divide and empower beneficiaries with skills required in administrative, clerical, and remote work environments.
2. Introduction
2.1 The Need for Township-Based Digital Skills Development
South Africa’s townships—such as Soweto, Khayelitsha, Mdantsane, Alexandra, and others—are home to millions of people who continue to face the brunt of economic exclusion, unemployment, and limited access to quality education and skills training.
Despite this, these communities are filled with untapped talent, ambition, and resilience. Training residents in practical, in-demand digital skills such as data capturing creates pathways to dignity, employment, and inclusion in the growing digital economy.
2.2 The SayPro–Accenture Collaboration
SayPro and Accenture have joined forces with a shared vision: to democratize access to digital skills and enable individuals from townships to become economically active and self-reliant. The Data Capturing training programme serves as the first in a series of initiatives aimed at addressing unemployment, especially among township youth and women.
3. About the Partners
3.1 SayPro – SayPro International Development Institute
SayPro is an award-winning nonprofit institution operating in over 30 countries, providing training, education, community development, and entrepreneurship programmes. SayPro’s impact model is focused on empowering underserved populations through inclusive education and job readiness initiatives.
3.2 Accenture South Africa
Accenture is a global professional services leader specialising in digital transformation, strategy, operations, technology, and consulting. Through its Corporate Citizenship and Skills to Succeed platform, Accenture invests in communities by enabling digital access and inclusive workforce development, particularly in the Global South.
4. Project Overview: Township Data Capturing Training Programme
4.1 Programme Aim
To provide market-relevant, high-quality Data Capturing training to 50 individuals residing in various South African townships, with the objective of increasing digital literacy, employability, and economic participation.
4.2 Geographic Reach
While piloted in select regions, the programme draws beneficiaries from townships including:
- Soweto (Gauteng)
- Khayelitsha (Western Cape)
- Mdantsane (Eastern Cape)
- Umlazi (KwaZulu-Natal)
- Mamelodi and Tembisa (Gauteng)
5. Programme Structure
5.1 Duration and Delivery
- Length: 6 to 8 Weeks
- Delivery Mode: Blended learning (in-person + online)
- Venues: SayPro satellite training centres in selected townships
5.2 Curriculum Components
The curriculum is modular, outcomes-driven, and accredited where applicable.
Module 1: Digital Foundations
- Computer basics and MS Office
- Email and internet navigation
- Online safety and cybersecurity
Module 2: Data Capturing Techniques
- Data input methods
- Using spreadsheets and databases
- Accuracy, speed, and data management
Module 3: Quality Assurance
- Data validation and error correction
- Cleaning and formatting techniques
- Efficiency and integrity in handling large data sets
Module 4: Administrative Readiness
- Document management systems
- Filing and digital archiving
- Workplace digital tools (e.g., CRMs, ERPs)
Module 5: Soft Skills & Career Development
- Communication and teamwork
- Interview preparation
- CV writing and online job applications
- Freelance work readiness (e.g., Fiverr, Upwork)
6. Recruitment and Selection
6.1 Target Audience
- Youth aged 18–35
- Unemployed adults with basic literacy
- Township residents (preferably Grade 10 or higher)
- Motivated individuals willing to commit full-time for the training period
6.2 Application Process
- Community outreach via local NGOs, churches, youth groups, and radio
- Online applications through SayPro’s portal
- Interviews and pre-assessment to ensure readiness and commitment
7. Learner Support Services
7.1 Resources Provided
- Computers and internet access at training venues
- Printed training manuals and digital toolkits
- Access to cloud storage (Google Drive/OneDrive)
7.2 Financial and Logistical Support
- Stipends for transport
- Refreshments and meals during in-person sessions
- Personal mentorship by SayPro trainers and Accenture volunteers
8. Certification and Recognition
Upon completion, participants receive:
- SayPro Certificate in Data Capturing
- Endorsement letter from Accenture for job applications
- Digital credentials and badges for LinkedIn and portfolios
These credentials are recognised by SayPro’s network of hiring partners, NGOs, and private sector employers.
9. Expected Outcomes and Impact
9.1 Individual Impact
- Increased job readiness
- Improved confidence in digital tools
- Access to formal and freelance employment opportunities
9.2 Community Impact
- Digital skills cascade within communities (trained individuals supporting others)
- Increased participation in the digital economy
- Potential for community-based data services (microbusinesses, cooperatives)
9.3 Key Metrics
- 90% Training Completion Rate
- 75% Competency Score in Assessments
- 60% Employment/Internship within 3 months
- 80% Learner Satisfaction Rating
10. Beneficiary Testimonials
“I was unemployed for two years and didn’t know how to use a computer. Now, I can create Excel spreadsheets, manage data, and even apply for admin jobs online.”
— Nomvula M., Umlazi Graduate
“This programme showed me I can learn and compete with the best. I now work part-time doing data entry for a small firm in Midrand.”
— Sipho D., Soweto Graduate
11. Partnership Strength and Sustainability
11.1 Roles and Responsibilities
- SayPro: Programme design, learner recruitment, training delivery, learner support
- Accenture: Funding support, volunteer mentorship, technology input, monitoring & evaluation tools
11.2 Future Plans
- Expand to train 200+ township residents annually
- Launch mobile digital learning labs for rural and peri-urban communities
- Establish job placement partnerships with corporates and SMEs
12. Challenges and Mitigation
12.1 Internet Access
- Solution: Provision of free Wi-Fi at training centres and mobile data vouchers
12.2 Dropout Risk
- Solution: Regular check-ins, mentorship, and learner support groups
12.3 Employment Pipeline
- Solution: Engagement with employers and integration with SayPro’s Employability Hub
13. Conclusion
The partnership between SayPro and Accenture marks a significant step toward inclusive digital empowerment in South Africa’s townships. By investing in skills like Data Capturing, this initiative unlocks opportunities, fosters independence, and plants the seeds for future digital professionals to thrive—regardless of where they come from.
This training is more than education; it is transformation—one learner, one community at a time.
Leave a Reply