The graduation ceremony which was held on 27 August 2025 provided Samsung an opportunity to reinforce its commitment of investing in ICT education, with the main aim of empowering black youth in the country’s rural communities. The aim of this programme is to address the challenge of unemployment and contribute to economic development in the Limpopo province. This programme forms part of Samsung’s R280-million worth Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP) which was launched in 2019 in collaboration with the DTIC.

The University of Limpopo was initially on-boarded as Samsung’s collaborative partner in June 2023 and contracted to deliver two cohorts (50 students in total) in the Introduction to Multi-Platform Software Development and Digital Social Innovation over two years. The official launch of the Limpopo Digital Innovation Lab took place on 06 March 2024. By February 2025, this cohort had managed to complete the curriculum (theoretical part) and, in the same period, the team’s projects were also presented to a panel of industry experts, Samsung and potential employers.

According to the University of Limpopo, the status of the current programme’s cohort is as follows: 24 students have completed the programme successfully, one (1) student left the programme due to personal circumstances and 10 of these students have already found permanent employment. The University sees this partnership as a way of addressing youth unemployment and drive positive change in the community. For this reason, the University is currently playing a key role of liaising with employment partners and its own university structures to place the remaining number of students for employment.

Mr Isaac Maredi, Executive Director, University of Limpopo ICT said: “Based on this progress, the programme is indeed achieving one of its main objectives of contributing to the growth of the tech industry in Limpopo and the country; by producing skilled software developers ready to tackle real-world challenges. We are very grateful to our partners in particular Samsung that has, through its EEIP contributed financially towards the equipment, tools and refurbishment needed in our university Lab.”

When the project initially started, the University of Limpopo identified a dedicated space to house the Limpopo Digital Innovation Lab, but it required extensive refurbishments that included electrical, fittings, carpets and equipment; to name a few. Through the guidance and support from one of the institution’s academic partners, the University of the Western Cape – the two institutions were able to successfully establish this strategic programme. In the absence of an accredited programme from UL, the UWC co-branded its EEIP accredited programme for use in its own institution for the benefit of the student community in Limpopo.

Mr Maredi expressed with pride how the University of Limpopo is now in the process of finalising its accreditation for its own programme. He also explained just how grateful his institution is for the active support that it has received from UWC when it comes to curriculum development, employment training programmes and advice relating to the growth of the Limpopo software development community. Importantly, the university partnership with Samsung has help the institution to deliver this innovative programme that is part of their broader efforts to upskill students and contribute to the digital economy.

“The University of the Western Cape is honoured to celebrate the first cohort of Multi-platform Software Development and Digital Social Innovation in Limpopo. This partnership with Samsung and the University of Limpopo continues to create meaningful skills development, employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in our joint vision of addressing youth unemployment through strategically targeted interventions. We congratulate all the students on their hard work and wish them much success in their software development careers,” said Dr Wouter Grove, Manager, Future Innovation Lab at UWC.

Nicky Beukes, Samsung SA EEIP Project Manager added: “We are very proud of these graduates and what we have been able to achieve together with our partners. Since inception of the programme, there has been a number of key milestones that include the achievement of our key mission of empowering young talent and advancing ICT skills in the province.

“In collaboration with the University of Limpopo, DTIC and UWC – this programme has allowed us the opportunity to empower the next generation of software developers through education and innovation, fostering growth and opportunity in rural communities,” concluded Beukes.

In attendance were some dignitaries and partners that included Simon Lee, President and CEO, Samsung Africa, CEO of Tshimologong, Mr Mark Harris and Wits Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Lynn Morris. Sponsored by Samsung, this ICT training programme has been designed to provide recent graduates with hands-on experience, skills development and industry exposure to enhance their employability. The latest cohort of 18 graduates (including six females) was conferred with their certificates at the ceremony.

This 12-month software development internship programme offered at the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct in Johannesburg, provides graduates with practical experience in cutting-edge technologies needed to thrive in the digital economy.  It also equips the youth with skills that prepare them for careers in the tech industry. Samsung’s investment in ICT education for unemployed youth, which includes the provision of stipends, equipment, data access, mentorship and access to facilities – aims to address the challenge of unemployment in the country.

This programme forms part of Samsung’s R280-million worth Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP), which was launched in 2019. Through Samsung’s collaboration efforts with universities – the programme has been able to achieve significant milestones and some tangible opportunities have been created for these graduating students.

Together, the partners have managed to enhance employment prospects and are addressing some of the socio-economic challenges faced by the country’s youth and their respective community. For instance, in the first three (3) years of this programme, the partners were able to achieve 100% employment rate and the objective has been to ensure that the next cohorts have the same success. Nine (which is 50%) of the current graduates have already secured permanent employment, in part thanks to the skills they gained in the programme.

According to some of the alumni students from the programme – this ICT training taught them to think innovatively, collaborate effectively and take accountability. Importantly, after this ICT training – the students were able to delegate tasks and responsibilities as well as make objective decisions to prioritise their teams’ needs over personal preferences.

Reflecting on her journey, one of the graduates, Ms. Nqobile Biyela shared how the programme helped her become a real-world developer with some of the practical skills she gained. “The training I received at Tshimologong ensured that I the knowledge of coding to the application but were also taught to think differently, solve problems by collaborating in teams. I am now confident to apply my expertise in the world of work. The programme does not just teach you the technical skills but helps you build a career,” Biyela added.

The Tshimologong environment has over the years expanded the student’s professional network and enriched their personal growth – making them more open-minded and empathetic. Also, during the internship programme – the students saw the value of having different ideas, perspectives and experiences to a solution.

Mr Mark Harris the CEO of Tshimologong said: “As Tshimologong, we are extremely proud of the partnership with Samsung that allowed us the opportunity to run a programme to build world class software engineers. This programme creates valuable opportunities for graduates, most of whom already have a formal qualification in ICT or software engineering. This is not just about skills development, it prepares students for real work in software development and the world of innovation.”

He explained that these graduates have now been prepared to solve real world problems. From reporting municipal issues, to managing bakeries as well as improving collaboration and streamlining data for businesses – this programme ensured that Tshimologong turned theory into practice. The graduates were given the opportunity to build products with real-world application.

“As partners, we know that the tech world is changing fast and that we are now in the era of AI-accelerated innovation. We are also well aware of the fact that the rules are being rewritten and that learning a single development language is no longer sufficient. This is why we are now embedding AI tools from day one, enabling faster learning, more rapid prototyping and scalable innovation. Ultimately, this will allow our interns the opportunity to become innovators, founders and problem-solvers in their own right,” Mr Harris added.

Also important to note is that this programme not only focuses on developing technical skills in software development but also emphasises real-world project experience and mentorship. The programme has seen significant success, in particular – graduates have over the years gained proficiency in in-demand coding languages and software development skills. Furthermore, this initiative continues to strive towards reducing unemployment and fostering job creation in the tech sector. 

Speaking at the ceremony, Nicky Beukes, Samsung EEIP Project Manager said: “As Samsung, we know very well the transformative potential of ICT education in empowering individuals, particularly unemployed youth and how it can help to overcome socio-economic challenges and unlock new career opportunities. Ultimately, this initiative seeks to drive positive change within the community and the broader industry. Samsung is committed to assisting government in addressing the challenge of youth unemployment and this is evident from the programme’s impact highlighted in the previous success stories from alumni students who have benefited from the programme,” concluded Beukes.

This Samsung ED programme which aims to empower black-owned ICT and Service Centre enterprises to boost the economy and create jobs through entrepreneurship and business support – involves initiatives like grant funding, specialist business development support and access to supply chain opportunities for black-owned and women-owned small, medium and micro enterprises. This programme’s efforts are aligned with the country’s transformation goals and aim to foster a more inclusive economy. 

In an effort to inspire potential future participants coupled by Samsung’s need to measure the impact and effectiveness of its CSR initiatives – the company took the time to speak to two of the beneficiaries from the ED programme in the last few years. When asked how Samsung EEIP provided the participating SMME owners with the confidence and support needed to mean business about their businesses, this is what they had to say:

One of the beneficiaries is Thoriso Rangata. He is a 32-year-old, businessman and the owner of KTO Digital, which focuses on Business Process Automation, Software Development Services and Background Screening Software as a Service (SaaS) solution provider. Thoriso says from being part of the programme, he gained the reassurance and confidence he needed.

Thoriso based in Johannesburg, originally from Limpopo, became part of the programme when he responded to a public call for applications in 2020. At the time, his business, KTO Digital, needed support in order to meet the company’s growth objectives. Thoriso is a true example of how the programme is able to empowerment ICT entrepreneurship as well as stimulate job creation and assist in contributing to economic growth. 

Since being part of the EEIP programme, Thoriso’s company won the Nedbank Business of the Year Award in 2022. In the same year, his company launched their own product and received accreditation as a credit bureau business.

The support he received from the programme has allowed KTO Digital to create over 20 jobs between 2021 to date. This is in line with the programme’s objective of creating both direct and indirect jobs, with a particular emphasis on Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and the development of township economy.

These achievements demonstrate how the EEIP programme has provided Thoriso and his team the opportunity to pursue their passions as well as bringing security and stability – not only to his employees but also to their families’ livelihoods. Thoriso explains, “the other direct benefits that KTO Digital received from being part of the programme included: Grant Funding, Asset Financing as well as Continuous Business Mentorship – and this, is exactly what our business needed in order to move forward.”

He added: “As a company, we strongly believe that the skills we acquired from this EEIP programme, which included Business regulatory governance structures and strategic business growth approaches/methods – have contributed to the success of our business to date. This programme has really helped us to achieve our goals, and it has taken our business to new heights.”

Based in Sinoville, Tshwane, the second EEIP beneficiary is Dumisani Mkhwebane – a 38-year-old businessman who co-owns and runs TIA-Solutions – an IT company with Boitumelo Mkhwebane – a 36-year-old, businesswoman. Their business focuses on Secure Scalable IT Solutions by building cloud infrastructure through collaborative team efforts. This provides their customers with resilience from cyber-attacks and contributes to productivity, efficiency as well as business continuity.

Dumisani explained further: “As TIA-Solutions, we partner with multinational vendors such as Microsoft, Fortinet and Veritas which allow us to give our customers end-to-end, tailor-made IT solutions that cater to their business needs.”

He also elaborated on how the company entered into the programme, Dumisani said: “We saw an advert on LinkedIn in 2023 about the EEIP Enterprise ED and decided to enter. We then received Capital Investment to buy computer equipment for our internal operations as well as company vehicles. In addition, we received Business Training and Skills development for our employees as well as other vital skills that we needed which included: Business Management Skills, Marketing and how to better position our company.

“The programme has both Financial and Non-Financial benefits for Business Growth and Sustainability,” Dumisani added. “It is for these reasons that we would like to encourage other SMEs to apply to be part of the programme. We strongly believe that the ED programme will help grow other SMEs like it did ours and it will help a great deal in upskilling their workforce.”

Importantly, this Samsung ED programme seeks to inspire potential future participants by demonstrating how the EEIP can help them kick-start their businesses. The tangible results articulated by these beneficiaries are a confirmation of Samsung’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and providing a reliable support system to SMEs in the country.

Nicky Beukes, Samsung South Africa EEIP Project Manager concluded: “It is clear from these testimonials that through the reassurance and confidence offered by this Samsung EEIP ED programme – we are slowly, but surely achieving our intention of shifting the perception of potential candidates from “I’m working on something” to “I run a successful business”. As Samsung, we are happy to be delivering according to our programme’s overall and multi-faceted objectives which include the creation of a more inclusive and prosperous society through strategic investments, skills development and entrepreneurial support.” 

This Bootcamp which was piloted last year is a critical component of Samsung’s R280-million worth Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP) and aims to equip entrepreneurs with the essential skills and knowledge needed to meet investor requirements and effectively approach the market. It is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs with experience in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) field with innovative ideas and, this also includes start-ups and established enterprises aiming to scale or overcome challenges.

This bootcamp is an intensive training programme and focuses on areas that include business management, financial planning and pitching to investors; designed to empower young entrepreneurs, particularly those from underserved communities, with skills and knowledge to launch and grow their businesses. Sponsored by Samsung, this EEIP transformative initiative is prioritising alumni’s from the Ocule IT Electronics Technician/Artisan programme.

This programme is part of Samsung’s broader commitment to foster SME development and digital skills development in South Africa – leveraging local talent and expertise. Importantly, it is closely aligned with the National Development Plan (NDP) and black economic empowerment goals that are designed to transform the country’s economy by empowering Black South Africans – fostering a more equitable and inclusive society.

Sanele Gcumisa, Managing Member of Ocule IT explained: “The launch of this Ocule IT and Samsung Enterprise Development initiative aims to empower entrepreneurs for investment readiness. This structured support seeks to ensure that participants are fully prepared to secure the needed funding to grow their businesses. This initiative underscores Ocule IT and Samsung’s commitment to foster entrepreneurship and drive economic growth by empowering businesses with business tools to become investor-ready.”

This bootcamp focuses on fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment – empowering a diverse range of participants who already have a foundation in the electronics sector, while also enhancing the programme’s relevance and effectiveness. The programme provides training in areas that are relevant to starting and scaling a business, such as business planning, marketing and financial management.

In particular, the structure of the Bootcamp involves a week-long intensive training session with masterclasses and opportunities to pitch business ideas for seed funding. The programme features a comprehensive five-day boot camp which took place the week of 07 – 11 July 2025 and will now be followed by a four-month incubation process that involves intensive mentoring.

During this period, participants will work on creating a professional data room – a critical tool that potential funders and investors use to evaluate businesses. Also, this programme will provide a direct financial contribution of R500,000 to support participants in their entrepreneurial journey and take their businesses to the next level.

A highlight of the initiative is the Pitch and Polish session, scheduled for the end of October 2025, where nine out of fifteen participants will have the opportunity to win cash prizes. These top performers are then divided into three categories, each comprising an average of five participants. The top three winners in the various tiers will be selected from each category, resulting in a total of nine winners. Following the Pitch and Polish session, the nine winners will undergo three months of monitoring as they submit their business plans and financials to potential funders and investors.

Nicky Beukes, Samsung South Africa EEIP Project Manager said: “For us at Samsung, this programme’s impact goes beyond mere investment – it is there to offer financial support to Electronics Technician Programme alumni as well as innovative ideas to start a business and those who already have established enterprises but require additional assistance. The Bootcamp offers a comprehensive programme designed to nurture the entrepreneurial spirit of alumni and this, allows participants to gain access to seed funding, mentorship and business development workshops.”

This holistic approach ensures that participants are equipped not only with financial resources but also with the strategic insights and practical skills necessary to succeed in the competitive electronics industry. With this programme, Samsung is able to provide successful entrepreneurs with access to its supply chain, potentially creating further business opportunities.

Gcumisa added: “Because effective public, private partnerships (PPPs) are crucial to both our company and Samsung, we are also in the process of engaging with the KwaZulu-Natal Growth fund and Sefda including other business partners. Also, the plan is to have additional partners presenting in October closer to the Pitch and Polish stage to give final advice. All such activities will occur in the last quarter; however, the final details will be shared in due course. For now, the focus is to ensure that learners are presented with material that they can use to prepare for the Pitch and Polish.”

This valuable initiative aligns with Samsung’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, skills development and positive social impact in the country. In essence, the Samsung EEIP ED Bootcamp provides a platform for ICT entrepreneurs to gain the skills, knowledge and support they need to thrive and contribute to the South African economy.

Beukes concluded: “Our commitment to sustainable development in collaboration with Ocule IT ensures that the initiative contributes to long-term positive impacts on the local community. By empowering young entrepreneurs, the programme contributes to local economic participation and creates a more inclusive and innovative society.”

Samsung EEIP | Enterprise Development | Samsung South Africa

The programme is an electronics artisanal skills development initiative, which aims to stimulate job creation in underprivileged communities. The students learn about the processes of design, manufacturing and repairing of electronic equipment and products.

The graduation ceremony of the 20 students was to celebrate their success and the positive impact this programme has had on rural communities in Eastern Cape. To date, Samsung has trained 162 artisans across three provinces: Kwa-Zulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Gauteng. The 1^st cohort graduated in November 2023.

The programme’s strategic focus is to drive local development and empowerment as well as to provide critical skills to the youth – tailored specifically to meet industry demands and the needs of the economic development for both the Eastern Cape and the country as a whole. The 100% employment rate in the programme over the last three years is testament to the demand for qualified artisans in electronics and other trade-related disciplines.

Nicky Beukes, Samsung EEIP Project Manager said: “With this technician programme, we have been able to achieve our main objective of providing skills development to the provincial artisans in an effort to stimulate job creation in a province with so much potential. As Samsung in partnership with Ocule IT, we are committed to empowering the province’s youth by equipping them with much-needed skills to land employment or start their own businesses.”

The Electronics Technician programme was established in 2020, after Samsung identified Eastern Cape’s critical shortage of technicians needed to service consumer electronics and hand-held devices. Since then, it has focused on training unemployed youth from rural and township areas with the end goal of developing sought-after artisan skills in the fields of electronics. The individuals that were part of the programme have been trained and mentored by accredited specialist providers as part of their workplace training. Samsung’s commitment to empowering the country’s youth has had a significant impact in driving the success of the programme.

Sanele Gcumisa, Ocule IT: Managing Member said: “For students, this programme offers unsurpassed access both in workplace learning and in business, as it assists learners to have the ability to sustain themselves even if they were not employed. Ocule IT in partnership with Samsung is pleased to offer an innovative and exciting programme of learning that emphasises an interdisciplinary approach to knowledge and the solution of real-life problems. We therefore thank Samsung, DTIC and all other stakeholders including employers and learners who participated in this programme.”

Gcumisa explained further that the main objective of this programme is to empower youth by equipping them with much-needed ICT skills to land employment or start their own businesses. This programme is an example of how successful partnerships with organisations such as Samsung and government can make a difference and help create an inspiring story.

Samsung’s sustained investment in ICT training and development in partnership with Ocule IT has contributed greatly in creating a workforce equipped with essential, in-demand skills. This Electronics Technician programme is one of the initiatives that can open new doors for previously disadvantaged youth.

Beukes concluded: “Through our drive for educational advancement and the transformative power of collaboration with institutions such as Ocule IT, we have been able to contribute positively to the growth of this programme over the years. Together, we have ensured that the programme enhances employment prospects and fosters sustainable economic development in the province and the country as a whole. And, all these efforts have had long-term benefits for both, the partners involved and the community.”

South Africa, like many countries globally, grapples with the challenge of youth unemployment. This is supported by statistics indicating a 45,5% unemployment rate among young individuals (aged 15-34 years), in contrast to the national average of 32,9% in the first quarter of 2024”, according to Statistics SA.”  The Western Cape is no exception to this alarming trend.

In response to the country’s youth unemployment issues and a way to assist government to address this challenge, Samsung launched a R280-million worth Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP) in 2019. The company is now celebrating five years of this EEIP programme’s sustained success. This EEIP programme is projected to have a measurable impact on job creation and a contribution of nearly R1-billion to the South African economy at large. Five years in and Samsung’s EEIP programme has managed to train 539 youth in SWD and artisanal skills.

Jose Frantz, Deputy Vice Chancellor: research and innovation, University of the Western Cape said: “We firmly believe in the transformative power of higher education to empower youth. The Future-Innovation Lab at UWC exemplifies this commitment by equipping previously disadvantaged youth with the skills and experiences necessary to succeed in an AI-driven economy. By bridging the gap between education and industry, this initiative not only addresses the pressing issue of youth unemployment but also fosters a culture of innovation and resilience. As we celebrate the upcoming graduation of the fourth cohort, we recognize the importance of such programs in nurturing the next generation of leaders and change-makers. Together, we can create a future where every young person has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.”

This SWD programme that is part of Samsung’s EEIP has ensured sustained ICT investment in historically disadvantaged universities, which in turn has helped to enhance the prospects of employment in the country’s youth. Importantly, this SWD programme has provided an opportunity to previously disadvantaged youth to gain skills in software development and digital social innovation with the ultimate aim of opening doors to employment or further training. Samsung strives for a 100% absorption rate of all the students in its training programmes.

Lenhle Khoza, Manager for B-BBEE and Transformation at Samsung South Africa said: “As Samsung, we would like to congratulate this group of brilliant students. From the start of this programme, our focus has been on capacity building in ICT training and development. With these software development skills, we are confident that these UWC students will now be able to play a crucial role in the digital economy.”

For Samsung, this graduation of the fourth cohort in this SWD programme is a clear indication of how successful partnerships with institutions of higher learning such as UWC are helping to address the country’s societal challenges through the development of digital solutions.

And according to UWC, the 41 students that participated in the SWD programme have gained proficiency in high-demand coding languages, software architecture, web and mobile app development as well as database management and more. The hands-on and project-based approach has ensured that graduates emerge not just with theoretical knowledge, but also with the practical skills demanded by the modern job market.

With hands-on, real-world experience provided through creativity and fun in a learning and working environment, these UWC students will now be able to successfully apply their new skills, which are highly sought-after in the country’s digital economy.

“As Samsung, we’ve always prioritised the need to demonstrate a measurable outcome on the country’s youth in all our education-focused initiatives. This SWD is no exception, in collaboration with UWC – we have ensured that these graduating students are employable and that some are able to attain permanent employment through our partner network,” concluded Khoza.

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^*Source – Unemployment in South Africa: A Youth Perspective | Statistics South Africa (statssa.gov.za)

The SIC programme, part of Samsung’s global corporate social investment initiatives, is designed to equip students with essential Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) skills. It primarily targets university students, recent graduates, and young professionals who are looking to enhance their technical skills and knowledge. The 46 graduates completed a rigorous curriculum combining theoretical learning and practical application, encompassing the cutting-edge area of Coding & Programming.

“As Samsung, we are thrilled that this initiative, while in its infancy, is showing great signs of yielding positive fruits that will have a long-lasting effect on the lives of the youth, the country’s fortunes and its capacity to be competitive on the global stage. The completion of this programme by these two cohorts underscores our commitment to fostering technological excellence and innovation. By empowering CUT students with 4IR skills, we are not only contributing to their individual growth but also to the broader technological advancement of South Africa,” said Lenhle Khoza, Manager: BBBEE and Transformation at Samsung.

The central goal of the SIC programme is to address the need for work-ready and employable graduates in technology, and also give youth from underserved communities access to these crucial skills. By providing students with advanced technical skills, the SIC prepares them for the rapidly evolving technology landscape while creating new opportunities for personal and professional growth.

One of the graduates, Maneo Ntseliseng Ramahlosi, who was born and bred in Maseru, Lesotho said she was not much of a programmer but has now gained confidence with her programming skills as well as the use of AI. “After completing the SIC programme, which happened as I was still completing my Masters. I have now gained an interest in the use and application of AI in our daily lives. The skills I acquired from the course have made me a better contender amongst my peers. Because of this, I would now advise and encourage anyone who has the opportunity to be part of the SIC programme – to grab this wonderful opportunity without hesitation,” added Ramahlosi.

Professor Muthoni Masinde, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology at CUT, remarked, “We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of the two cohorts of graduates from the Samsung Innovation Campus. This partnership has proven to be transformative, equipping our students with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s digital economy. We are proud to see our graduates step into the future as technologically adept leaders. Being able to plough back into the local community is great and we’re fortunate to be part of the programme and thankful to Samsung for it.”

In response to the challenges faced by information and communication technology (ICT) graduates in securing jobs within the software development industry, Samsung initiated this ground-breaking 12-month internship programme. The initiative, which is part of Samsung’s Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP), is aimed at bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry experience. The 18 talented interns, who were selected based on their IT tertiary qualifications, were provided with intensive mentorship under the guidance of senior developers.

Samsung supported the cohort with an investment exceeding R190 000 per candidate, which went towards stipends, computer equipment and access to data, full-time access to a software engineer and mentor, and access to facilities at Tshimologong as the host of the internship program.

“The ICT industry often demands years of experience from job seekers, which can be a significant barrier for fresh graduates,” said Lenhle Khoza, B-BBEE and Transformation Manager at Samsung. “Through our partnership with Tshimologong, we’ve been able to accelerate the professional development of these interns, equipping them with skills equivalent to multiple years of industry experience.”

The programme focuses on technical skills and emphasises real-world project experience and professional mentorship. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the employability of the graduates, preparing them to contribute effectively to the tech industry in South Africa. Some of the projects include a database for educational institutions, a property maintenance system, and an application called ‘Accommodate Me’, an innovative solution that streamlines every aspect of the accommodation journey.

“Through my involvement in the Samsung Advance Industry Exposure programme, I have gained invaluable qualities like communication and the capacity to work well with others, which are critical in any field. Gaining practical work experience is crucial for graduates, and this programme gave me the chance to collaborate closely with mentors and seasoned developers,” said Phamela Makhubele, a fourth cohort student.

Since its inception in 2020, the Samsung-sponsored internship programme has yielded promising results. A total of 35 graduates from the last three cohorts have secured formal employment, representing a 100% absorption, demonstrating the programme’s efficacy in meeting industry needs. From the current cohort of 18 graduates (10 males and 8 females), who have completed this rigorous programme, six have already obtained formal employment, while the remaining 12 are undergoing interviews with prospective employers.

“Samsung remains committed to fostering the growth of quality software development skills in South Africa,” added Lenhle Khoza, B-BBEE and Transformation Manager. “Our partnership with Tshimologong not only supports the development of future tech start-ups but also contributes to the broader goal of building a skilled workforce in the ICT sector.”

“We are thrilled to announce the graduation of the fourth cohort of students who have developed advanced technology skills and are now prepared to enter the workforce. We are proud to contribute to reducing unemployment and fostering job creation. We wish our graduates the best in their future careers and hope they maintain a strong connection with Tshimologong,” said Mark Harris, CEO of Tshimologong Digital Precinct.

Tshililo Mungoni, a 21-year old female student originally from Limpopo but resides in Johannesburg, was very eager to pursue her passion for technology. She followed her interest by enrolling at WSU and majored in Software Development. During her time there, she actively participated in hackathons and IT Society in an effort to hone her skills and expand her knowledge.

When she found out about the WSU-SIC programme, she was very interested. Tshililo said that she signed up for the programme to learn about Python and AI. This is because she was well aware of the list of high-demand jobs in the local market. The opportunity to learn ICT skills from this WSU-SIC programme and earn recognised certificates was highly appealing to her. Tshililo was lucky enough to be taught by some of WSU’s most experienced instructors and mentors who were able to offer her a structured, guided and supported learning approach.

During the programme, she learnt the fundamentals of Python programming and gained a solid understanding of AI concepts such as machine learning and neural networks. Tshililo who acquired high-demand ICT skills and graduated in February this year, has already secured an internship opportunity as a Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst with a company that is based in Sunninghill, Johannesburg.

She expressed how grateful she is for the opportunity and the skills that she’s obtained from the WSU-SIC programme. Tshililo believes that her experience in the programme prepared her for her current work environment. She is now able to apply the technical skills in Python that she learnt from the programme, in real work scenarios. And with her certificates from the WSU-SIC programme, she is now also able to showcase her proficiency.

For Tshililo, the programme did not only allow her to gain practical experience but it also opened doors for further advancement in the IT industry. Her future plans she said: “involve studying further and expanding my knowledge in Business and Data Analysis as well as potentially pursuing more opportunities in this field.”

Another young and bright 22-year old who is born and bred in East London, Somila Mdletshe comes from a diverse background with a passion for technology and innovation. Even before joining the WSU-SIC programme, Somila had a keen interest in AI and its applications in various industries.

Somila signed up for the programme because she was fascinated by Coding and Artificial Intelligence especially, and its potential to drive positive change. She saw the programme as an opportunity to deepen her understanding of the field and acquire practical skills that would enable her to make meaningful contribution in society.

She believes that the WSU-SIC programme has empowered her with valuable skills and knowledge that she can apply to solve real-world problems. For example, she is already using AI and data analysis techniques to optimise processes in her family’s business. Also, she is convinced that she can use her skills to contribute to community projects that can benefit from technological advancements.

Throughout this programme, she added:  “I’ve learned a wide range of concepts and techniques, from basic coding, machine learning and neural networks to data analysis and natural language processing. I’ve also developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential in the fast-paced world of technology.”

Somila’s future plans involve leveraging the knowledge and skills that she’s gained from this WSU-SIC programme to pursue a fulfilling career in the world of technology. She aims to contribute to projects and initiatives that harness the power of AI and data science to drive innovation and make a positive impact in society.

“My future plans also include making sure that I continue to learn so that I can stay updated with the latest advancements in technology. I believe that this will help to further advance my career and achieve my goals,” concluded Somila.

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) in collaboration with Samsung are proudly hosting an award ceremony in Mdantsane for the second cohort of 25 students who – through the Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) – are the first in Africa to graduate in Artificial Intelligence (AI) education, with the ultimate aim of curbing unemployment in the Eastern Cape.

Since the dawn of democracy when Samsung entered the African continent through the establishment of the South African office, the company has been investing in education-focused Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes for the future, which have now led to positive social changes within the broader African continent. This WSU-SIC programme is one of the ways that Samsung is commemorating SA’s 30-year anniversary of democracy.

In the recent state of the nation address (SONA), the President said: “While economic growth is essential to reduce unemployment, we cannot wait to provide the work that many of democracy’s children need. Having a job does not only provide an income – it is fundamental to people’s sense of self-worth, dignity, hope, purpose and inclusion.”

This year’s graduation in both C&P and AI education, specifically, is very significant as it fits perfectly into Samsung’s current AI technology strategy and vision. Importantly, two female graduates from WSU’s East London campus who are deeply passionate about the potential of technology had this to say about their experience in the programme.

Somila Mdletshe, 22-year old female student who’s born and bred in East London said: “My time exploring Artificial Intelligence has been profoundly impactful, providing me with essential skills and invaluable insights that I am excited to apply in the future. With this WSU-SIC programme, I feel like I’ve embarked on a journey of learning, growth and discovery; and I have absolutely no doubt that the impact of the collective efforts will be felt for years to come.”

This new group of graduates that come from Mdantsane township and various areas of South Africa are now part of the full programme that seeks to boost youth employment in the technology sector by empowering them with Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) skills in the field of AI, C&P and Internet of Things (IOT). Last year, a group of 21 students were inducted to kickstart the C&P programme and 19 of them graduated.

Tshililo Mungoni, 21-year old female student originally from Limpopo, but resides in Johannesburg said: “My coding journey at WSU Samsung Innovation Campus has been transformative, equipping me with skills and a new career path in Business Intelligence (BI) & Data Analysis. We had hands-on project and practical experience, which has allowed us the opportunity to apply Python in real-world scenarios and gain tangible skills in data visualisation tools and techniques. I am honoured to be part of this innovative community.”

Fostered through the institution’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (CfERI), this graduation is further evidence that this partnership between WSU and Samsung has indeed brought this one of a kind programme that aims to continue offering the much-needed skills in basic C&P as well as AI education to the province’s youth. For these partners, the priority and measurable impact for this programme continues to be the absorption of these students into employment, however this youth is also encouraged to consider opportunities as entrepreneurs in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

Lenhle Khoza, B-BBEE and Transformation Manager at Samsung said: “As a global technology giant, we have long recognised the significance of AI and how it has rapidly emerged as one of the most prominent, future technologies. Our collective quest of seeking to provide education through the latest and most advanced technology is essential in keeping the youth abreast and well-educated in the most relevant, emerging technologies in the world.”

And furthermore, both parties are pleased with the overall, profound effect that this programme has had on these graduates. Stats do not lie: the student’s technology capability growth rate is now sitting at 69% compared to when the programme started. Also important to note is that, none of the students from this second cohort have dropped out of the programme, the attendance rate was 96% and 100% of them are graduating.

Dr Thobekani Lose at WSU said: “As an institution that is proudly celebrating a second group of students that are graduating in 4IR skills – we understand the importance of teaching and leveraging AI in the country’s education. Samsung’s continued investment and its partnership with our institution is of utmost importance because it ensures that we are training our students to use AI tools and platforms effectively, ensuring that they can maximise the benefits of these new and emerging technologies in their future careers.”

Importantly, Dr Lose believes that, one day, the theoretical education combined with the practical skills imparted to these students during this SIC programme will enable them to make a meaningful contribution, not only in their jobs or businesses but also in society as a whole.

“As Samsung, we are thrilled that our global initiative that is aimed at empowering the leaders of tomorrow and equipping them with 4IR skills, in particular AI needed by the ICT industry and the local economy; is indeed starting to fulfil the need to realise meaningful change,” concluded Khoza.