World Youth Skills Day – Free Microsoft Training and Accreditations

Press Release – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [July 15, 2024]

200 Free Microsoft Licenses for SA Youth: Maccauvlei Learning Academy Launches Free Microsoft Training Initiative for Young People for World Youth Skills Day

Johannesburg, South Africa — In celebration of World Youth Skills Day, Maccauvlei Learning Academy is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering South Africa’s youth with critical digital skills. Starting today, the Academy will provide 200 free Microsoft training licenses for Power BI and Teams, targeting young individuals aged 18 to 25 from previously disadvantaged communities. The licences are valued at a total of R200 000 and the training is valued at R3.5 million.

This initiative comes at a crucial time for South Africa, as the latest statistics from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) reveal a concerning unemployment rate, especially among young people.

According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for the fourth quarter of 2023 released by Stats SA, the unemployment rate in South Africa stood at 34.9%. Among youth aged 15 to 24, the unemployment rate was a staggering 68.2%[1].

The initiative, spearheaded by Buhle Menziwa, Maccauvlei’s IT Training Manager and a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, will see 100 licenses for Power BI and 100 licenses for Teams distributed to deserving candidates. This effort is part of Maccauvlei’s commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of South African youth, particularly in the face of high unemployment rates.

Each exam is valued at $55 (roughly R1 000) equating to R200 000. Additionally, the training is valued at R3 500 per person. Training 1000 people is valued at R3.5 million.

Empowering Youth with Essential Skills

“In today’s data-driven world, having the ability to analyse data and collaborate virtually is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity,” said Buhle Menziwa. “Our goal is to equip young people with the skills they need to succeed in the modern workforce, enabling them to change the direction of their lives and, ultimately, their communities.”

“Microsoft changed my life. Starting out as an IT technician and becoming a certified professional has shown me the power of these skills. I want to give others the same opportunity to transform their lives,” he added.

About the Courses

Power BI: This course focuses on data analysis and visualisation, a critical skill in today’s job market. Participants will learn how to transform raw data into meaningful insights, making them valuable assets to potential employers.

“With Power BI, we are empowering youth to transform raw data into valuable insights,” said Menziwa.

Teams for Business: As a leading collaboration platform, Microsoft Teams enables users to work together virtually, sharing documents, making video calls, and streamlining communication within a unified space. This course prepares participants for the demands of remote and international work environments.

“Microsoft Teams allows people to work together virtually, breaking down geographical barriers and creating opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. We want our youth to be able to compete in the global market,” he said.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply through the official campaign page: https://info.maccauvlei.co.za/free-micorsoft-accreditation/. Applicants must have basic computer skills and access to the internet. The selection process will prioritise individuals from mining communities, rural areas, and low-income households.

“The training will be open to everyone up to 1000 attendees then the exam/certification will be given to the top 100 people for each course,” said Menziwa.

Training and Certification

The training will be conducted online. Participants will undergo rigorous training sessions, followed by mock exams. The top 100 performers from each course will receive a voucher to take the official Microsoft certification exam, significantly boosting their employability.

Why This Initiative Matters

South Africa faces a youth unemployment crisis, with many young people lacking the resources and opportunities to succeed. By providing access to high-demand skills in data analysis and virtual collaboration, Maccauvlei Learning Academy aims to bridge this gap, offering a lifeline to those in need.

“By providing access to these courses, we are not just offering training; we are giving young people the tools to create a better future for themselves and their families. It’s about creating lasting change in our communities,” said Menziwa.

About Maccauvlei Learning Academy

At Maccauvlei Learning Academy, we take immense pride in being the ultimate skills development provider, dedicated to shaping a brighter future through education, skills development, and empowering human capital.

With over 60 years’ experience in the skills development sector, Maccauvlei is the preferred provider to many companies in South Africa and in the African region.

Maccauvlei offers an extensive portfolio of courses covering a wide range of business disciplines, including Management and Leadership, Human Resource Management, Life and Functional Skills, Trainer Development and Assessments.

For More Information

For more information about the initiative or to schedule an interview with Buhle Menziwa, please contact:

Contact Person: Amy Green – PR Consultant for Maccauvlei Learning Academy

Email: amy@phakamanigroup.com

Phone: 082 860 6217

Website: https://info.maccauvlei.co.za/free-micorsoft-accreditation/


[1] https://www.statssa.gov.za/publications/P0211/Media%20release%20QLFS%20Q4%202023.pdf