1. Executive Summary
SayPro (SayPro International Development Institute), a leading nonprofit organisation dedicated to skills development, workforce readiness, and entrepreneurship, has partnered with Accenture, a global leader in professional services and digital transformation, to train 50 unemployed and underemployed individuals in Data Capturing in Johannesburg, South Africa.
This partnership reflects a strong commitment to community upliftment and economic empowerment through practical digital skills training. The programme is specifically designed to respond to the digital divide and unemployment crisis affecting youth and disadvantaged populations in urban centres like Johannesburg.
2. Context and Justification
2.1 Unemployment in Johannesburg
Johannesburg, the economic hub of South Africa, paradoxically faces high levels of youth unemployment. While it offers numerous corporate opportunities, many residents—especially from marginalised townships—are excluded due to limited access to quality education, digital skills, and professional development.
2.2 The Role of Data Capturing
In today’s data-driven economy, data capturing is a fundamental skill required in a broad range of sectors, including health care, retail, finance, logistics, government, and business process outsourcing (BPO). By equipping individuals with these skills, the programme opens pathways to entry-level administrative jobs, internships, and freelance opportunities.
3. Strategic Partnership Overview
3.1 About SayPro
SayPro is an award-winning organisation recognised for delivering high-quality, practical training across South Africa and the continent. It has served thousands of individuals with a focus on employability, entrepreneurship, and civic leadership.
3.2 About Accenture
Accenture is a global consulting firm known for its work in digital transformation, innovation, and social impact. In South Africa, Accenture’s Corporate Citizenship strategy includes community upliftment, digital education, and women and youth empowerment.
3.3 Goals of the Partnership
- Provide accredited, market-aligned Data Capturing Training to 50 individuals in Johannesburg.
- Promote digital inclusion in historically disadvantaged communities.
- Increase employment and income-generating opportunities for participants.
- Contribute to South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) goals related to education and youth employment.
4. Programme Design and Structure
4.1 Programme Duration
- Total Duration: 6 Weeks
- Format: Blended learning (in-person + online modules)
- Venue: SayPro Training Facility, Johannesburg Central
4.2 Curriculum Overview
The curriculum was co-developed by SayPro and Accenture instructional designers to ensure industry relevance and practical application.
4.2.1 Module 1: Introduction to Digital Literacy
- Basic computer functions
- Microsoft Office overview
- Internet navigation and email etiquette
4.2.2 Module 2: Data Capturing Fundamentals
- Data entry best practices
- Use of spreadsheets and databases
- Data verification, validation, and cleaning
- Introduction to CRM and enterprise software
4.2.3 Module 3: Accuracy and Speed Training
- Typing skills and productivity tips
- Error checking and quality control
- Simulated tasks from real-world datasets
4.2.4 Module 4: Workplace Readiness
- Time management and work ethics
- Business communication
- Conflict resolution and teamwork
4.2.5 Module 5: Career Development
- CV writing and interview preparation
- Job search strategies
- Freelancing and remote work platforms
5. Participant Selection Process
5.1 Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 18–35 years
- Residing in Johannesburg or nearby townships
- Currently unemployed or underemployed
- Basic literacy in English
- Motivated and committed to completing the programme
5.2 Recruitment Strategy
- Outreach through community centres, youth networks, and NGOs
- Social media and online campaigns
- Screening assessments for digital literacy
- Short interviews to determine motivation and interest
6. Support and Resources Provided
6.1 Training Materials and Resources
- Digital learning materials
- Stationery and notebooks
- Access to computers and software tools
6.2 Internet and Data Support
Participants are supported with weekly internet data packages to facilitate participation in online components of the programme.
6.3 Stipends
To ensure accessibility, SayPro and Accenture offer a transport and meal stipend to cover basic daily expenses during the training period.
6.4 Mentorship and Coaching
Each learner is assigned a mentor who provides career guidance, emotional support, and helps navigate the training journey.
7. Certification and Accreditation
At the successful completion of the programme:
- Participants receive a SayPro Certificate in Data Capturing.
- Certificates are co-branded with Accenture as a recognition of corporate sponsorship.
- High-performing learners are eligible for advanced training opportunities or internships.
8. Post-Training Opportunities
8.1 Job Placement Support
SayPro’s employment desk works closely with corporate partners to facilitate job interviews, internships, and entry-level placements.
8.2 Entrepreneurship and Freelancing
Participants are introduced to platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer, where they can apply their data skills for remote income generation.
8.3 Alumni Network
Graduates join the SayPro Alumni Network which provides:
- Continuous learning resources
- Invitations to networking events
- Access to job and grant opportunities
9. Impact Monitoring and Evaluation
9.1 Evaluation Methods
- Pre- and post-training assessments
- Participant feedback surveys
- Mentor and trainer evaluations
- Follow-up surveys at 3 and 6 months
9.2 Key Impact Metrics
- Training Completion Rate
Target: 90% or higher - Employment or Further Training Placement
Target: 60% within 3 months - Skills Competency Improvement
Measured by assessments and trainer feedback - Participant Satisfaction
Minimum target: 85% satisfaction score
10. Voices from the Programme
“This training came at the perfect time. I was at home doing nothing, and now I can work with data, build my CV, and apply for jobs I never imagined.”
— Sibongile D., Soweto
“It’s rare to find free training that actually gives you practical, job-ready skills. Thank you to SayPro and Accenture for believing in us.”
— Themba N., Alexandra
“We are proud to support SayPro’s vision and see real results in the lives of young South Africans. This is what transformation looks like.”
— Nomusa Ngobeni, CSR Lead, Accenture South Africa
11. Future Plans and Scalability
Given the early success of the Johannesburg cohort, SayPro and Accenture are exploring the expansion of the programme to:
- Additional cities including Cape Town and Durban
- Larger cohorts of up to 100 learners per training cycle
- Integration with sector-specific training in finance, health, and customer service
The long-term goal is to create a national digital skills movement powered by corporate-NGO partnerships.
12. Conclusion
The Data Capturing Training Programme by SayPro and Accenture in Johannesburg is a testament to what can be achieved when private sector innovation meets grassroots development. It not only equips individuals with in-demand skills but also inspires hope, purpose, and confidence in the future.
This initiative lays a strong foundation for similar collaborations that can transform the digital landscape of South Africa—one learner at a time.
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