Sci‑Bono & GDSD: Digital Skills Programme 2026 – Apply by 5 June

Digital Skills Development Programme for Youth 2026 is opening its doors this week, and you only have a few days to claim a place. With unemployment still high, employers are looking for people who can use computers, analyse data and communicate online. This free training could move you closer to a job right now.

What is the programme?

The Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) and the Sci‑Bono Discovery Centre have teamed up to run the Digital Skills Development Programme for Youth 2026. The aim is to give unemployed South African youth the practical digital skills that employers need.

Who can apply?

• South African citizen, resident of the City of Johannesburg
• Age 18‑35
• Unemployed at the time of application
• Meet the minimum schooling for the chosen track (see below)

What you will learn

The programme offers three separate tracks. Each track has only 50 places.

1. Foundational Employability Skills Programme

• Target: Out‑of‑school youth
• Requirement: Grade 10 with English
• Skills taught: professional communication, workplace behaviour, teamwork, problem‑solving, time‑management, job‑search and interview techniques.

2. Microsoft Office Specialist & Cisco Data Analytics Essentials Programme

• Target: Unemployed youth
• Requirement: Grade 12, English 40 %, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy 40 %
• Skills taught: Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint; data handling, interpretation and reporting; basic digital productivity tools.

3. Networking Specialist Programme

• Target: Unemployed youth
• Requirement: Grade 12, English 40 %, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy 40 %, interest in IT
• Skills taught: fundamentals of computer networks, basic troubleshooting, security basics; prepares you for roles such as IT support technician, junior network technician or network administrator trainee.

How to apply (step‑by‑step)

1. Check that you meet the eligibility and schooling requirements for the track you want.
2. Gather a digital copy of your ID, proof of residence (municipal bill or lease) and your most recent school certificate.
3. Visit the official application form: Apply for the Sci‑Bono & GDSD Digital Skills Development Programme 2026.
4. Fill in all fields accurately. Attach the required documents.
5. Submit before 23:59 on 5 June 2026. Applications open on 28 May 2026.

Tips to improve your chances

• Apply early – places are allocated on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
• Double‑check that your certificates show the required marks (40 % minimum for English and maths).
• Write a short personal statement that explains why you need the training and how you will use the skills.
• Make sure all attachments are clear and legible.
• Keep a copy of the confirmation email; you may be asked for it later.

Why the training matters

Even entry‑level jobs now expect basic computer literacy, email etiquette and the ability to handle data. Completing one of these tracks can open doors to learnerships, internships, or junior positions in administration, customer service, IT support, data analysis and more.

Next steps

If you meet the criteria, start your application today. The window closes in less than two weeks, and only 50 spots per track are available. If you do not get a place this round, keep practising your digital skills on free platforms and look out for other SETA‑funded programmes.

Frequently asked questions

• Can I apply with only Grade 10? Yes, but only for the Foundational Employability Skills track.
• Do I have to live in Johannesburg? Yes, residency in the City of Johannesburg is required.
• Is the programme free? Yes, there are no fees to apply or attend.
• How many places are there? Fifty per track, allocated first‑come, first‑served.
• When does the application close? On 5 June 2026.

Disclaimer

Edupstairs is not a recruitment agency, training provider or government department. We share verified opportunities for information only. Details such as requirements, deadlines and spaces may change without notice; always confirm with the official organisers before you submit any personal information.

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