UKZN’s School of Education, in partnership with BANKSETA, launched a comprehensive skills development programme for Grade 12 learners in a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bridging the digital divide and preparing learners for the workforce.
This initiative, made possible through facilitation by the UKZN Foundation, focuses on digital literacy, work readiness and career counselling, and targets underprivileged learners from rural schools in KwaZulu-Natal, empowering them with skills needed to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
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The project was headed by DVC for Teaching and Learning Professor Thabo Msibi acting as the Senior Project Manager, together with Project Manager Professor Phumlani Myende of the School of Education.
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‘The first and second successful programme implementation of the SKILLS for the Future Programme in Limpopo in 2021 and 2022 saw 300 learners from 10 schools being empowered in digital literacy, work readiness and career counselling, said Myende. ‘This programme has demonstrated the School of Education’s capacity to deliver impactful educational interventions. With the Limpopo track record, the School has attracted funding to replicate and even enhance these achievements in KwaZulu-Natal, and 80 Grade 12 learners from Pinetown District are enrolled in the programme this year.’
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The recent participating schools in KZN are KwaDinabakubo, Thokoza Mnganga, Khabazela and Dick Ndlovu secondary schools.
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The digital literacy component of the programme was designed to equip learners with essential knowledge and skills in high-demand areas such as computer systems, architecture, word processing, spreadsheet management, database systems and coding. ‘These skills are crucial for learners to navigate and excel in during the digital age, particularly as they consider careers in the banking sector and other technology-driven industries,’ said Myende.
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The programme also introduced learners to advanced software and application development concepts, focusing on fundamental programming principles, software engineering and problem-solving. The programme aims to prepare learners to compete effectively in a global market by fostering creativity and innovation.
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A unique aspect of this programme is the extended mentoring initiative, facilitated in partnership with the Community Development Association Foundation (CDAF). This initiative aims to pair learners with university students who excel in their studies, including those in the banking sector. Mentors will provide ongoing support and guidance, helping learners navigate their educational and career journeys from the initiative’s start until they complete their tertiary training or enter the workforce.
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The participating learners were presented with certificates of competence and attendance by UKZN. There are also plans to launch an alumni club for the learners, which will serve as a platform for continuous interaction between learners, facilitators and mentors in order to track and support their progress.
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