Executive Summary
In a strategic initiative aimed at addressing youth unemployment, enhancing digital skills, and improving access to technological opportunities, SayPro (South African Youth Project) has partnered with Accenture South Africa to provide Technical Support Training to 50 individuals based in Gauteng. This collaboration forms part of both organizations’ commitment to digital inclusion, youth empowerment, and social development through impactful education and skills development programs.
1. Introduction
1.1 Background of SayPro
The South African Youth Project (SayPro) is a non-profit organization that focuses on youth development through education, training, and entrepreneurship. Since its inception, SayPro has empowered thousands of young people across South Africa with vocational training, leadership skills, and career support services. SayPro operates with the core mission of reducing youth unemployment by bridging the gap between education and employability.
1.2 About Accenture
Accenture is a global professional services company with leading capabilities in digital, cloud, and security. With a strong presence in South Africa, Accenture has consistently demonstrated its commitment to corporate social responsibility, innovation, and workforce transformation. The company’s work in skills development and community investment aligns with national objectives to upskill the workforce and create sustainable employment opportunities.
1.3 Context and Rationale for the Partnership
South Africa continues to grapple with high unemployment rates, especially among youth. Many young people, despite having formal education, lack the technical skills and practical experience required by the labor market. Recognizing this challenge, SayPro and Accenture joined forces to create a structured training program that equips participants with in-demand technical support skills, increasing their employability in the growing ICT sector.
2. Program Overview
2.1 Objective
The primary objective of the training program is to provide quality, industry-relevant technical support training to 50 young individuals in Gauteng, enabling them to:
- Acquire certified ICT support skills.
- Gain hands-on experience in technical problem solving.
- Enter the job market or pursue internships/apprenticeships in IT-related roles.
- Contribute meaningfully to the digital economy.
2.2 Target Audience
The program targets unemployed or underemployed youth aged 18–35 residing in Gauteng. Preference is given to individuals who demonstrate a strong interest in technology and a willingness to pursue careers in IT support, customer service, or telecommunications.
3. Program Structure and Curriculum
3.1 Duration and Format
The training runs over a period of 12 weeks, combining theoretical instruction with practical, hands-on exercises, virtual simulations, and real-time mentorship. The format includes:
- Classroom training (online and in-person)
- Group projects and role-playing
- Assessment tests and mock technical support scenarios
- Workplace readiness sessions
3.2 Curriculum Highlights
The curriculum is designed to meet CompTIA and Microsoft standards, covering the following key areas:
3.2.1 Introduction to IT and Support Roles
- Understanding the IT landscape
- Role of a Technical Support Specialist
- Soft skills and communication in tech
3.2.2 Hardware and Software Troubleshooting
- Installing and configuring operating systems
- Diagnosing and resolving PC hardware issues
- Software installation and updates
3.2.3 Network Fundamentals
- Understanding network components
- IP addressing and configuration
- Wireless technologies and troubleshooting
3.2.4 Security Essentials
- Cybersecurity basics
- Protecting user data and systems
- Safe browsing and virus prevention
3.2.5 Customer Service Skills
- Managing customer inquiries
- Ticketing systems and service desk tools
- Professional conduct in tech support environments
3.2.6 Career Development and Employability
- CV writing and interview preparation
- Digital literacy and online professionalism
- Time management and workplace etiquette
4. Implementation and Delivery
4.1 Training Facilities and Resources
Training is delivered through a hybrid model. SayPro provides access to learning centers equipped with:
- Laptops and technical equipment
- Stable internet access
- Learning management platforms (LMS)
- Access to Accenture’s corporate mentors and trainers
4.2 Trainers and Facilitators
The training is conducted by a combination of:
- Accredited ICT facilitators from SayPro
- Guest instructors and industry professionals from Accenture
- Alumni who have previously completed SayPro’s digital programs
5. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Outcomes
5.1 Assessment and Certification
Participants are evaluated through weekly tests, practical demonstrations, and final assessments. Upon successful completion, each trainee receives a certificate of competence in Technical Support.
5.2 Post-Training Opportunities
Graduates of the program are:
- Added to SayPro’s and Accenture’s talent pool for internships and job placements.
- Assisted with referrals to IT support companies and BPO firms.
- Enrolled in SayPro’s ongoing alumni development and mentoring network.
5.3 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Completion rate: At least 90% of participants to finish the program.
- Employment rate: At least 50% placed in jobs, internships, or apprenticeships within 6 months.
- Skills acquisition: Demonstrated competence in at least 80% of assessed technical modules.
6. Social and Economic Impact
This partnership contributes meaningfully to:
- Reducing youth unemployment in Gauteng.
- Building a digitally skilled workforce for South Africa’s future economy.
- Promoting inclusive growth, especially among previously disadvantaged communities.
- Advancing gender equality, with an emphasis on including young women in tech.
7. Stakeholder Feedback and Testimonials
“This initiative proves that when the private and non-profit sectors collaborate, real transformation is possible. We are proud to partner with Accenture to empower youth with future-ready skills.”
— SayPro Executive Director
“It is part of Accenture’s core mission to bridge the digital divide and unlock potential in every young South African. This training is just the beginning of what we hope will be a long-term impact.”
— Accenture Skills Development Lead
8. Conclusion and Future Plans
The Technical Support Training Program is a blueprint for scalable and replicable youth empowerment initiatives across South Africa. With the successful rollout in Gauteng, SayPro and Accenture aim to:
- Expand the program to other provinces such as KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.
- Increase intake to reach 500+ youth by 2026.
- Integrate advanced modules including cybersecurity, cloud computing, and coding.
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