In today’s digital economy, ICT skills are essential across every sector – from transport and logistics to finance, healthcare and beyond. The ability to navigate digital tools, analyse data and adapt to evolving technologies underpins both employability and enterprise. Engen has recognised this urgent need and is addressing South Africa’s ICT skills gap with notable commitment, equipping young people with the technical and professional capabilities needed to participate meaningfully in a rapidly changing world.
As South Africa celebrates Youth Month, Engen has reaffirmed its commitment to digital empowerment by spotlighting young learners whose lives have been transformed through the Engen Community Computer School and the Engen Global Citizen Development Programme (EGCDP).
Building sustainable careers
The initiative, now in its second year, is already delivering real-world results. Among the 17 top-performing learners who completed the free four-month computer literacy course in December 2024, several have progressed into the accredited year-long ICT learnership offered by EGCDP – a structured programme providing NQF Level 4 and 5 qualifications in Technical Support and Systems Development.
Thobeka Ngobese from Umlazi is one such learner. She has graduated from the Engen Community Computer School and is now enrolled in the EGCDP, where she continues to build on her digital foundation.
“It wasn’t just a certificate; it’s a sign of accomplishment – a symbol that I started something and was able to finish it,” she says. “Thank you, Engen, for giving me this opportunity. Technology is changing and improving every day and these are skills I’ll carry with me forever.”
Another graduate, Natasha Moonsamy from South Durban, says the programme has sparked her entrepreneurial spirit. “This was my stepping stone,” she says. “It helped me develop discipline, study habits and a vision for the future. I even started my own PC repair business!”
Their journeys reflect the growing reach of Engen’s education-based development efforts. Since launching the Wentworth-based computer school in 2009, Engen has trained over 3 300 unemployed individuals in essential digital skills – all at no cost to participants. Of those, 28% have gone on to find employment, 10% have pursued further studies and 6% have entered structured learnerships such as the EGCDP.
“The digital economy is evolving rapidly and equipping young people with future-fit ICT skills is essential,” says Dee Mdeka, Engen’s skills development facilitator. “Through the EGCDP, our graduates gain technical expertise and real-world experience, positioning them for success in a competitive job market.”
Bridging a critical systemic gap
The programme goes beyond classroom learning. It combines technical training with life skills and workplace readiness modules – bridging the gap between education and employment. That holistic approach, says the company, is key to long-term impact.
Earlier this year, the EGCDP expanded to Steelpoort in Mpumalanga, where 10 learners have begun their training. The regional rollout signals Engen’s intent to build scalable solutions for digital inclusion nationwide.
“This is about more than training; it’s about systemic impact,” says Simlindele Manqina, Engen’s head of transformation and stakeholder engagement. “We’re building sustainable futures, investing in youth and actively contributing to South Africa’s digital transformation.”
The programme also contributes to national development goals, including SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). By focusing on technical skills, ethical leadership and enterprise readiness, Engen has positioned the EGCDP as a catalyst for economic participation.
“At Engen, we believe that education is the key to economic freedom,” concludes Olwethu Mdabula, Engen’s CSI manager. “This Youth Month, we salute the resilience and ambition of South Africa’s youth and reaffirm our commitment to creating tangible opportunities for them to succeed.
“To Thobeka, Natasha and all the EGCDP learners: your journey is just beginning. May your courage and commitment inspire many more to follow.”
