“We are more than a technology provider in South Africa. One of our most important contributions to advancing the country’s digital evolution is our IT skills-to-jobs programme, Cisco Networking Academy,” says Smangele Nkosi, GM of Cisco South Africa, highlighting the company’s support of this transformation through numerous education and skills development initiatives.

“As youth unemployment reaches a staggering 45.5% and 35.7% among women, the academy is playing a crucial role in empowering these groups by developing technology skills.”

Since the inception of Cisco Networking Academy in 1998, more than 411 000 South African students have been trained (154 000 in the 2024 fiscal year alone) with women representing 53%.

Cisco Networking Academy aligns with the national goal of reducing unemployment among youth and women by fostering digital skills, says Nkosi. “Not only is education the foundation of a thriving digital economy but it is also a key pillar of transforming society. By equipping South Africans with the right training, we are opening doors to opportunity and providing young people with valuable expertise that will make them more employable in future.”

Additionally, the company collaborates with TVET providers through the Department of Higher Education and Training. Cisco Networking Academy courses are now part of the National Certificate (Vocational) Level 2-3 – life skills, computer literacy and IT essentials are offered by public and private TVETs across 270 campuses with lecturers trained to deliver the course materials.

An inclusive future for all: Bridging urban and rural communities

To expand digital skills training in rural areas, Cisco, in collaboration with government, non-profit organisations and the National Library of South Africa, has launched digital learning hubs in remote areas across the country. These hubs provide under-served communities with access to free training through the Cisco Networking Academy programmes.

Delivering growth through country digital acceleration

The company’s commitment to supporting socio-economic growth through digitisation extends beyond the classroom. Last year, Cisco signed a new phase of its Country Digital Acceleration initiative with the Department of Communication and Technology.

This initiative partners with key government institutions, focusing on four core pillars:

1. Economic development
2. Digital skills and talent development
3. Sustainable and secure national infrastructure
4. Digitisation of public services.

The aim is to help accelerate South Africa's digitisation, create new jobs, stimulate innovation and contribute to the nation’s GDP growth.