In the heart of a few rural villages in South Africa, an initiative called the End-User Computing Programme has been established to empower youth through education and skills development.
The programme stems from a longstanding partnership between the Barokologadi Communal Property Association (BCPA) who represents these villages, and Elephants, Rhinos & People (ERP), the groupelephant.com non-profit organisation.<
In the heart of a few rural villages in South Africa, an initiative called the End-User Computing Programme has been established to empower youth through education and skills development.
The programme stems from a longstanding partnership between the Barokologadi Communal Property Association (BCPA) who represents these villages, and Elephants, Rhinos & People (ERP), the Group Elephant non-profit organisation.
The current focus on IT-related learnerships is driven by the belief that beyond job security and financial rewards, IT fosters innovation, problem-solving, and out-of-the-box thinking. The emphasis on IT skills is seen as essential for shaping a future where the youth can actively contribute to technological advancements in South Africa.
“The core objective of the learnership programme is to equip participants with a strong foundation in information technology, specifically in the field of end-user computing,” says Kelebogile Sephoti, the BCPA Training Centre Manager. “The curriculum is carefully designed to reflect industry trends, providing learners with a set of skills including end-user computing, problem-solving, and innovative thinking. These skills are instrumental in preparing the youth to become active contributors to technological advancements, driving productivity in various sectors.”
The commitment to a learner's success is evident through robust progress assessment mechanisms. Workplace monitoring, evaluation by registered assessors, and ongoing feedback systems are in place to ensure that learners are on the right track. Support systems, including mentorship, coaching, and facilitation by experienced professionals, further enhance the educational experience of the programme.
The 100% completion rate of the programme by learners in 2022, and in August 2023, is a testament to its efficiency and effectiveness. The programme has facilitated the transition of graduates into facilitators, further contributing to the sustainability and growth of the initiative. Success stories also extend to entrepreneurial ventures, where learners have applied their IT skills to create products and services for their local community.
The success of the EPI-USE-funded learnership programme relies on the active involvement of the broader community and its stakeholders. Outreach programmes, partnerships, and events contribute to its social and economic development. Supporting entrepreneurship initiatives, collaborating with industry leaders, and embracing sustainability practices are ways in which the community and stakeholders can contribute to the overall success of the programme.
“The programme focuses on the empowerment of rural youth in South Africa, providing them with the tools and skills needed to thrive in the dynamic field of information technology. As it continues to evolve and inspire success, it not only transforms individual lives but also contributes to the overall development of the community and its economic landscape”, says Lesiba Masibe, Project Lead for the End-User Computing Programme.
To learn more about the various initiatives that ERP has established, please visit: www.erp.ngo