Right now, SITA and NEMISA are opening their Future Tech Explorers: Emerging Technologies Training Opportunities 2026 for South African youth, and places are limited. The four‑day course runs from 21 – 24 July 2026, giving you a fast‑track glimpse into the tech jobs that are shaping our economy.
What is the Future Tech Explorers 2026 programme?
The programme is a short, intensive digital‑skills bootcamp. It is run by SITA together with NEMISA and brings in training partners such as STEMPower, HP Gaming Garage, Microsoft and AWS. Over four days you will attend industry‑led sessions that cover real‑world applications of emerging technologies.
Who can apply?
To be eligible you must meet all of the following:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Hold a Matric certificate or a higher qualification
- Have a genuine interest in technology and digital careers
- Be free on the dates 21‑24 July 2026
- Be able to attend in‑person (or online on day 4) and bring your own laptop if you attend on‑site
The training is suitable for unemployed youth, recent school leavers, TVET or university graduates, and anyone who wants to up‑skill for the digital economy.
What will you learn and gain?
Each day focuses on a different area, giving you both knowledge and hands‑on practice.
- Day 1 – AI Fundamentals (STEMPower): What artificial intelligence is, how it transforms industries, and entry‑level AI career paths.
- Day 2 – Game Programming (HP Gaming Garage): Basics of coding, creative programming, and the steps to build a simple game.
- Day 3 – Security Operations (Microsoft): Core concepts of cybersecurity, threat detection and the role of a security analyst.
- Day 4 – Data Analytics (AWS) – online only: Collecting, interpreting and visualising data, plus an introduction to cloud‑based analytics tools.
Beyond the content, you will get:
- Exposure to fast‑growing tech fields
- Practical, hands‑on activities
- Career guidance from global technology partners
- Confidence using digital tools
- Insights into what employers look for in junior talent
- Networking with other motivated young South Africans
- Ideas for further study or certification
Key programme details at a glance
- Dates: 21‑24 July 2026 (09:30 – 16:00 each day)
- Venue (Days 1‑3): SITA Erasmuskloof, 459 Tsitsa Street, Erasmuskloof, Pretoria East
- Day 4: Online only
- Capacity: 100 in‑person participants per day; up to 1 000 online participants per day
- Laptop: Bring your own laptop (Wi‑Fi provided on‑site)
- Qualification required: Matric or higher
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the official online application form.
- Complete all required fields – name, contact details, education level and a short statement of why you want to join.
- Upload a clear copy of your Matric (or higher) certificate.
- Confirm whether you will attend on‑site or only on‑line for day 4.
- Submit the form before the closing date (once announced – apply early to secure a place).
Tips to improve your chances
- Apply as soon as the form opens – slots fill quickly.
- Double‑check that your laptop is fully charged and can connect to Wi‑Fi.
- Write a concise motivation statement; mention any personal projects or interest in AI, cybersecurity, gaming or data.
- If you have any certificates (even basic ones), list them – they show commitment.
- Prepare a short list of questions you want the trainers to answer; it shows engagement.
Next steps – take action now
This training is a practical way to explore several tech career paths without a long‑term commitment. If you are 18‑35, have Matric or higher, and can attend the dates, start your application today. Even if you are not sure which field suits you, the four‑day exposure will help you decide and give you a foundation for further study or entry‑level jobs in South Africa’s growing digital economy.