1. Executive Summary
In a bold and transformative move to tackle gender inequality and digital exclusion, SayPro (SayPro International Development Institute), in partnership with Accenture South Africa, has launched a targeted training initiative to equip 50 women with critical data capturing skills. This programme is designed to empower women—particularly from underserved backgrounds—with the tools and knowledge to access employment opportunities, pursue entrepreneurship, and thrive in the digital economy.
2. Context and Background
2.1 Women and Economic Disparity in South Africa
South Africa continues to face persistent gender-based inequalities. Despite progress, women—especially those in rural, township, and low-income communities—face higher unemployment rates, limited access to technology, and minimal participation in the formal economy. According to Statistics South Africa, women make up the majority of the unemployed, and many are confined to informal or unpaid labor.
2.2 The Urgency of Digital Inclusion
In today’s digital age, data-driven skills are essential across all industries. However, women often lack access to the training and tools required to participate in this digital transformation. Addressing this gender gap in digital literacy and employment opportunities is both a social and economic imperative.
3. The Partnership: SayPro and Accenture
3.1 SayPro’s Vision for Women Empowerment
SayPro has long championed the inclusion of women in all areas of education, employment, and leadership. With over 100 training and development programmes across Africa, SayPro works with local and international partners to drive sustainable development through skills training, entrepreneurship, and mentorship—especially for women.
3.2 Accenture’s Commitment to Equality
Accenture is a global leader in technology and consulting services with a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through initiatives like Skills to Succeed, Accenture is committed to creating pathways for women and marginalized groups to enter and thrive in the digital workforce. This partnership with SayPro aligns with their shared vision of inclusive digital transformation.
4. Programme Overview
4.1 Programme Title
SayPro-Accenture Women’s Digital Skills and Data Capturing Training Programme
4.2 Purpose
To train and empower 50 women with industry-aligned data capturing competencies, positioning them for formal employment, remote work, or digital entrepreneurship.
4.3 Duration
- 8-week intensive training
4.4 Delivery Format
- Hybrid model: A blend of in-person sessions and online learning
- Access to digital labs and virtual mentorship
5. Target Group and Selection Process
5.1 Beneficiary Profile
- Women aged 18–45
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Residents of townships, rural areas, or low-income urban communities
- Basic literacy and digital curiosity
- Interest in admin, data entry, or digital work
5.2 Selection Criteria
- Community-driven nominations
- Application screening and short interviews
- Prioritization of single mothers, women with disabilities, and women-headed households
6. Curriculum Design
The curriculum was designed by SayPro’s learning experts and Accenture’s workforce development specialists to ensure it is accessible, practical, and aligned with industry needs. The content is gender-sensitive, flexible, and includes trauma-informed teaching techniques to support women who may have faced abuse, poverty, or exclusion.
6.1 Core Training Modules
Module 1: Introduction to Data Capturing
- Understanding data in everyday work
- Overview of sectors hiring data capturers
Module 2: Digital Literacy for Beginners
- Introduction to computers and mobile devices
- Email creation, internet navigation, and security
Module 3: Excel and Google Sheets Mastery
- Entering, cleaning, and formatting data
- Using formulas, charts, and data validation
Module 4: Online Forms and Cloud Tools
- Data collection with Google Forms, Microsoft Forms
- Storing and sharing documents online (Drive, OneDrive)
Module 5: Data Ethics and Protection
- Understanding data privacy (POPIA)
- Responsible handling of sensitive information
6.2 Personal and Professional Empowerment
Module 6: Confidence Building and Communication
- Public speaking, personal branding, and assertiveness
- Communicating professionally in the workplace
Module 7: Workplace Readiness
- Writing CVs and cover letters
- Time management, teamwork, and conflict resolution
Module 8: Career Pathways and Entrepreneurship
- Exploring freelancing platforms (Upwork, Fiverr)
- Introduction to data services businesses
- Connecting with micro-enterprise support networks
7. Programme Support Structure
7.1 Learning Tools and Materials
- Printed guides and online materials in multiple languages
- Video tutorials and live demonstrations
- Access to laptops/tablets during training
7.2 Participant Support
- Daily transport stipends or shuttle services
- Childcare vouchers or on-site facilities (where available)
- Free meals during training days
- Access to trauma counselors and peer support circles
8. Certification and Recognition
Each participant who successfully completes the programme will receive:
- A jointly branded certificate from SayPro and Accenture
- A digital credential to display on CVs and LinkedIn profiles
- Entry into SayPro’s alumni network for lifelong learning and opportunities
9. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Success Metrics
9.1 Impact Indicators
- Training Completion Rate: Target 90%+
- Job or Internship Placement Rate: Target 60% within 3 months
- Entrepreneurial Startups Launched: Minimum 5 small business initiatives
- Self-confidence and digital literacy score improvements
9.2 Feedback and Iteration
- Weekly learner feedback sessions
- End-of-programme surveys
- Post-programme impact check-ins at 3 and 6 months
10. Success Stories and Testimonials
“This was the first time I used a computer. Today, I’m applying for jobs online and capturing data for a small business.”
— Zanele, 34, Limpopo
“The training didn’t just teach me about Excel—it taught me that I have value and a future.”
— Nomvula, 25, Johannesburg
“After this programme, I opened my own small service to help other women with data entry needs.”
— Fatima, 40, Cape Town
11. Long-Term Impact and Scaling
11.1 Vision for Women Empowerment
This is not a one-time initiative. SayPro and Accenture envision a long-term strategy to:
- Train 1,000 women annually
- Establish Women’s Digital Skills Hubs in each province
- Create a network of women-owned digital enterprises
11.2 Partnerships and Ecosystem Development
- Collaboration with local municipalities, NGOs, and private sector employers
- Ongoing mentorship, peer learning, and support for female graduates
- Gender-focused policy advocacy in education and employment
12. Challenges and Mitigation Strategies
| Challenge | Mitigation Strategy |
|---|---|
| Domestic obligations | Flexible class times, childcare support |
| Digital anxiety | Beginner-friendly content, patient instruction |
| Transport & safety | Travel stipends and secure venues |
| Lack of role models | Women mentors and guest speakers |
13. Sustainability and Funding
The SayPro-Accenture partnership seeks to mobilize additional funding through:
- Corporate Social Investment (CSI) contributions
- Philanthropic foundations focused on gender and education
- Government grants and donor agencies
Sustainability is also embedded through train-the-trainer models to enable local women to continue delivering the programme in their communities.
14. Conclusion
This initiative is more than just training; it is about changing the trajectory of 50 women’s lives. Through technology, compassion, and community, SayPro and Accenture are helping women move from the margins to the center of the digital economy. These women are not just recipients of aid—they are becoming digital leaders, job creators, and agents of change in their families and communities.
Empowering women through digital skills is one of the most effective ways to ensure inclusive and sustainable development in South Africa—and this partnership proves what is possible when purpose meets action.