South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis demands bold solutions, and two global technology leaders—Microsoft and Cisco—are stepping up. Through a range of free training initiatives, they are equipping unemployed young people and entrepreneurs with the digital skills needed to thrive in the modern economy.
Microsoft: Certifications and Paid Internships
Microsoft is making world-class credentials accessible through its AI Skills Initiative, run in partnership with the Youth Employment Service (YES). A total of 50,000 free certification exam vouchers are available for unemployed youth. Participants can access self-paced online learning in high-demand fields such as Azure AI, Security, and Data Fundamentals. After completing the training, they receive a voucher to sit for the official certification exam at no cost. Apply at yes-aiskills.co.za.
In addition, Microsoft offers the SARS 2026 Internship Programme, an 18-month paid internship (R5,800 monthly stipend) targeting graduates aged 22 to 28. With only 60 spots available, successful candidates will specialise in areas like Cloud Architecture and AI Engineering.
Cisco: Networking Academies and Local Hubs
Cisco is focused on building foundational IT skills through its globally recognised Cisco Networking Academy. In partnership with the City of Ekurhuleni, unemployed youth aged 18 to 35 can access free courses in Cybersecurity, Networking, and AI at local libraries—no prior experience needed. For additional details https://omg10.com/4/9195925.
Nationally, Cisco is establishing digital learning hubs in collaboration with the National Library of South Africa, rolling out resources across all nine provinces. Entrepreneurs can leverage these free programmes to upskill without dipping into business capital. See the details on the wesbite – https://www.cisco.com/site/za/en/learn/index.html.
How to Get Started
To take advantage of these opportunities:
-
Register your profile on SAYouth.mobi to access the National Pathway Management Network.
-
Apply early for Microsoft’s vouchers via the YES portal.
-
If based in Ekurhuleni, enquire at your local library about Cisco’s training programme.
With over 1.4 million individuals already trained through Microsoft’s broader efforts and Cisco expanding its network of hubs nationwide, the infrastructure for your success is already in place. These programmes are designed to turn ambition into tangible career outcomes—seize the opportunity today.