Executive Summary
SayPro (South African Youth Project), in collaboration with Accenture, is proud to announce the launch of a transformative training initiative aimed at empowering 50 youth in Diepsloot with Technical Support skills. This strategic partnership is designed to address unemployment, bridge the digital skills gap, and equip young individuals with relevant knowledge for the fourth industrial revolution. By offering high-quality training and practical experience, the program seeks to uplift and positively transform the lives of participants and the broader Diepsloot community.
1. Introduction
Unemployment, particularly among youth, continues to be a pressing challenge in South Africa. With technology rapidly evolving and becoming central to most economic activities, the need for digital literacy and technical proficiency has never been greater. Recognizing this, SayPro and Accenture have come together with a shared vision—to unlock opportunities for young people by providing them with market-relevant skills in Technical Support.
This initiative is part of a broader mission by both organizations to drive socio-economic development, enhance employability, and promote inclusive growth in marginalized communities such as Diepsloot.
2. About the Partners
2.1 SayPro – South African Youth Project
SayPro is a registered non-profit organization focused on youth empowerment, skills development, and entrepreneurship. With a footprint in various provinces across South Africa, SayPro has trained thousands of young individuals in life skills, digital literacy, business development, and employability training. The organization’s core aim is to bridge the gap between education and employment by offering targeted, community-based solutions.
2.2 Accenture
Accenture is a global professional services company with leading capabilities in digital, cloud, and security. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries, Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve performance and create sustainable value. In South Africa, Accenture is known for its community investment programs focused on digital skills, innovation, and job creation.
3. Program Objectives
The joint initiative aims to:
- Equip 50 selected youth from Diepsloot with certified Technical Support skills.
- Prepare participants for entry-level roles in IT support, help desk assistance, and system maintenance.
- Foster long-term employability and career development in the ICT sector.
- Promote digital inclusion and reduce the skills gap in underserved communities.
- Create pathways to employment through corporate and SMME partnerships.
4. Training Curriculum and Structure
The Technical Support training program is structured over a 12-week period, combining theoretical learning, practical experience, and soft skills development. The curriculum is aligned with both international best practices and South African industry needs.
4.1 Core Modules
- Introduction to Information Technology
- Computer Hardware and Software Basics
- Operating Systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
- Networking Fundamentals
- Troubleshooting Techniques
- Customer Service and Communication Skills
- Remote Desktop and IT Support Tools
- Cybersecurity Basics
4.2 Soft Skills and Professional Development
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Time management and productivity
- Workplace readiness
- CV writing and interview preparation
4.3 Practical Experience
Participants will have access to a simulated help desk environment where they will handle real-world technical issues under supervision. Additionally, top-performing students will be considered for internships and job placement opportunities through Accenture’s partner network.
5. Participant Selection Criteria
The program specifically targets unemployed youth aged between 18 and 35 residing in Diepsloot. Candidates are selected through a transparent recruitment process which includes:
- Online and community-based application submissions
- Interviews and assessments to evaluate interest and aptitude
- Consideration of socio-economic background and commitment to learning
Priority is given to individuals who have completed at least Grade 12 and show a strong desire to build a career in the technology sector.
6. Impact and Benefits
6.1 For Participants
- Acquisition of a nationally recognized Technical Support certificate
- Enhanced digital and communication skills
- Greater access to employment and internship opportunities
- Increased self-confidence and personal development
6.2 For the Community
- Reduction in youth unemployment
- Enhanced digital capability in Diepsloot
- Creation of a local pool of skilled tech professionals
- Empowered youth who can mentor others and uplift the community
6.3 For the Industry
- Expansion of the ICT talent pipeline
- Promotion of diversity and inclusion within the tech sector
- Strengthening of corporate social responsibility efforts
7. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Sustainability
SayPro and Accenture have established a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track the success of the program. This includes:
- Pre- and post-training assessments
- Regular progress reports
- Participant feedback and satisfaction surveys
- Follow-up tracking to monitor employment and further training outcomes
Sustainability is ensured by embedding mentorship, ongoing support, and alumni engagement into the program’s design. Graduates will also be added to SayPro’s database for future opportunities.
8. Future Outlook
The success of the Diepsloot pilot project is intended to serve as a model for replication in other townships and provinces. With continued support from Accenture and other stakeholders, SayPro aims to scale the program to train over 1,000 youth across the country in the next three years.
Plans are also in place to expand the curriculum to include more advanced ICT modules such as cloud computing, data analytics, and cybersecurity to meet the growing demand for specialized tech skills.
9. Conclusion
The partnership between SayPro and Accenture is a powerful testament to what can be achieved when purpose-driven organizations unite to address real societal challenges. By providing technical support training to 50 youth in Diepsloot, the program not only transforms individual lives but also contributes to national development goals.
This initiative embodies the spirit of empowerment, innovation, and inclusive progress—and marks a meaningful step toward a more equitable and digitally inclusive South Africa.
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