TWENTY unemployed youth from Wentworth, Merebank, Umlazi and Lamontville completed their ICT qualifications through the Engen Global Citizen Development Programme (EGCDP) at a graduation ceremony in Jacobs recently.

The ceremony marked the culmination of a 12-month ICT skills development programme aimed at equipping unemployed youth from surrounding communities with in-demand digital and technical skills.

Also read: Wentworth gas leak: More than 36 learners treated

The graduates completed nationally recognised qualifications in IT Technical Support (NQF Level 4) and IT Systems Development (NQF Level 5).

The programme combines:

• Classroom-based learning with extensive workplace-based training,
• Ensuring that learners gain practical, real-world experience in ICT environments.

Engen CSI Manager, Olwethu Mdabula said, “Through the Global Citizen Development Programme, we aim to equip young people with the skills, confidence and workplace exposure needed to pursue meaningful careers in the ICT sector. The success of these graduates demonstrates the power of investing in education and skills development to unlock opportunities for youth in our neighbouring communities.”

Engen’s skills development and learnership programme is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to empowering youth and supporting local communities by offering accredited qualifications and hands-on learning experiences aimed at enhancing career prospects.

Engen Skills Development Facilitator, Pontsho Matshediso said: “The digital economy is evolving rapidly, and equipping young people with future-fit skills is essential. Through the EGCDP, we ensure that our graduates gain both technical expertise and real-world experience, positioning them for success in a competitive job market.”

Launched in 2023, the programme forms part of the company’s broader commitment to youth empowerment and community development.

The initiative focuses on bridging the gap between skills development and economic participation by equipping unemployed youth with industry-relevant ICT capabilities and pathways into employment, entrepreneurship and further education.

Also read: Help find missing 16-year-old girl from The Bluff

A key feature of the programme is its strong work-integrated learning model, with learners gaining hands-on workplace experience through host companies and industry partners.

Approximately 70% of the training takes place through workplace-based practical exposure, allowing participants to apply their learning in real ICT environments, including technical support, systems development, IT troubleshooting and digital operations.

The programme has already demonstrated encouraging employment outcomes. From the initial cohort, 30% of graduates secured permanent employment opportunities, with 22% retained in permanent employment, while 37% progressed to further studies and 7% launched small technology enterprises following completion of their training.

In addition, 33% of graduates remain in an active employment placement pipeline, supported through ongoing employer engagement and a post-training graduate database that connects participants with potential employers across the ICT sector.

Graduates celebrated the milestone alongside family members, community stakeholders, training partners and Engen representatives.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox.