If you live in Johannesburg and you are struggling to find work, you need to see this now. The Sci-Bono & GDSD Digital Skills Development Programme closes on 5 June 2026. Only 150 young people will get a free spot. This training could help you build skills that employers actually want.
This programme is for unemployed youth aged 18 to 35. You must live in the City of Johannesburg. You must be a South African citizen. The training is free.
There are three different courses. Each one takes 50 students. This means the spaces are limited. You need to act fast because selection is first come, first served.
What Is This Programme?
The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre has partnered with the Gauteng Department of Social Development. They want to help unemployed and underserved youth gain digital and workplace skills.
This is not just a basic computer course. You will learn practical skills that help you become ready for work. The training covers digital literacy, IT fundamentals, and professional workplace behaviour.
You may also learn data analytics basics, networking technologies, and how to use Microsoft Office. The goal is to make you confident with modern workplace tools.
Who Can Apply?
You can apply if you meet these rules.
- You are between 18 and 35 years old.
- You are unemployed.
- You are a South African citizen.
- You live in the City of Johannesburg.
- You are part of the unemployed and underserved youth group.
- You meet the school results needed for your chosen course.
This programme is designed for youth who do not have easy access to training. If you have been left out of other opportunities, this is for you.
Remember, only 150 people will be chosen. The system works on a first come, first served basis. This means waiting until the last day is risky.
The Three Course Options
You must choose one of three pathways. Each has different requirements and teaches different skills.
Foundational Employability Skills Programme
This course is for out-of-school youth. It is a good choice if you have not completed Grade 12. It is also helpful if you need to build basic workplace confidence.
You will learn soft skills that many employers look for first. These include professional communication, workplace behaviour, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. You will also practice interview preparation and career readiness.
Many young people struggle to get jobs because they lack these basic skills. This pathway helps you build a strong foundation so you can start your career journey.
Microsoft Office Specialist & Cisco Data Analytics Essentials Programme
This course is for youth who have completed Grade 12. You need at least 40% in English. You also need at least 40% in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
You will learn practical digital skills. These include Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint. You will also learn data handling, data interpretation, and reporting skills. These are digital productivity tools used in modern offices.
These skills are useful in many jobs. You could work in administration, finance, customer service, or business support. Employers value people who can organise information, understand data, and create clear reports.
Networking Specialist Programme
This course is also for Grade 12 graduates. You need 40% in English and 40% in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. You must also have a real interest in information technology.
This pathway prepares you for entry-level IT jobs. You could become an IT Support Technician, Junior Network Technician, Help Desk Support worker, Systems Support Assistant, or Network Administrator Trainee.
Computer networks support communication and data sharing in schools, offices, government departments, and businesses. This course gives you a start in this growing field.
How to Apply
Applications opened on 28 May 2026. You must submit your form before 5 June 2026.
Follow these steps:
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- Check that you meet the requirements for your chosen course.
- Gather your documents. You will need your ID, proof of residence, and school results.
- Visit the official application form online.
- Fill in all the details carefully.
- Submit before the deadline.
The application form is here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfr2wORNARbG8ToH7pNL4n-TqYe1EruVfPedjMKTArLaBaB6g/viewform.
There is no fee to apply.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Many applicants make simple mistakes. Here is how to avoid them.
Choose the right level. Pick the course that fits your current school results and your future goals. If you do not have Grade 12, apply for the Foundational course. If you have Grade 12 and enjoy technology, choose the Data Analytics or Networking path. Do not apply for courses where you do not meet the maths or English requirements.
Apply today. Do not wait until 5 June 2026. Once 50 people apply for a specific course, it may close early. First come, first served means the early applications get the spots.
Prepare your documents now. Have your South African ID ready. Get your proof of address that shows you live in Johannesburg. Find your matric certificate or statement of results if you are applying for the Grade 12 courses.
Be honest on the form. Only apply if you are truly unemployed. This opportunity is meant for youth who really need the help.
Why These Skills Matter
Most jobs today require basic digital skills. You need to send emails. You need to fill in online forms. You need to use spreadsheets and understand simple data.
Employers want staff who can:
- Use computers without fear.
- Write professional emails.
- Work with documents and spreadsheets.
- Manage information accurately.
- Fix simple digital problems.
- Adapt to new workplace tools.
When you have these skills, you stand out from other job seekers. You may find it easier to get learnerships, internships, or entry-level jobs. You could even start your own small business using these skills.
Final Thoughts
The Sci-Bono & GDSD Digital Skills Development Programme offers you a real chance to grow. You can gain practical skills that make your CV stronger. You can become more confident in interviews. You can prepare for real work environments.
But you must act now. The deadline is 5 June 2026. Only 150 spaces exist across the three courses.
Take the first step today. Submit your application. Then keep looking for other opportunities while you wait for a response. Building your future starts with the choices you make right now.
About the author: Itumeleng Ndlovu is the Founder of SETA Careers. She helps South African youth find verified information about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and skills development programmes.