Many young South Africans remain structurally excluded from tech-driven job opportunities, creating a digital skills gap. But through our TechStart platform, Vodacom wants to shrink that gap. We have made a business and societal commitment to upskill tens of thousands of South African youths by focusing on future-fit technology skills.

This is part of our broader Digital Inclusion, Youth Empowerment, and DEIB Transformation strategy, integrating employee participation, government relations, tech partnerships, and future pipeline development.

A Goal To Empower 1 Million Young People

TechStart is an initiative designed to equip Africa’s youth with essential digital skills for the future. The target is to upskill 1 million young people across the continent in the next 3 years, empowering them to thrive in the digital economy. We are starting small, though, and for the current financial year, the goal is to make an impact on 50 000 youth. 

What You Get Out Of the Platform

Through TechStart, participants gain access to world-class learning opportunities, including foundational and advanced technology skills, designed to bridge the gap between education and employability.

The platform combines classroom-based training and self-paced online learning, allowing flexibility and accessibility for all participants. To maximise impact, we are collaborating with leading tech companies, educational institutions, and community organisations, creating a network of support to ensure success.

TechStart offers a range of programs, including the AWS Educate program in collaboration with Amazon, which will provide cutting-edge content tailored to future tech needs.

How To Reap the Benefits of TechStart

The platform is open to everyone aged 18 to 35, regardless of background or prior experience. Whether you’re a student, job seeker, or aspiring entrepreneur. TechStart is designed to empower young people looking to gain valuable digital skills and unlock new opportunities in the tech industry.

Registrations are open, and it’s easy to do:

- Visit Digital Skills Hub 

- Click on the Skills Hub tab

- Click on the registration button and complete the registration form.

- Verify your email address.

- Once registered, you’ll receive access to your chosen program and start your learning journey.

Vodacom intends to roll out more programs over the coming years to fulfil its goal of empowering 1 million young people in the next 3 years.