In a monumental step towards closing the software development skills gap in South Africa, WeThinkCode_ proudly announces the graduation of its first cohort from Ekurhuleni West TVET College (EWC). Launched in March 2023 with a class of 50 students, this pioneering programme was designed to bridge the gap between South Africa’s unemployed youth and the growing market demand for skilled software developers.
Of the 50 students who began the programme, 44 are graduating, and 56% have already secured internships since completing the programme in June 2024, underscoring the programme’s tangible impact. “This graduating class of 2024 is a testament to the power of public-private partnerships, demonstrating how together we can equip a new generation with skills essential to the digital economy,” remarked Ruvimbo Gwatirisa, Public Partnerships Director at WeThinkCode_.
South Africa’s economy urgently needs specialised technical skills to combat youth unemployment. WeThinkCode_, a private software development academy, has made high-quality, tertiary-level tech training accessible to unemployed youth, empowering them to enter the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. The partnership between WeThinkCode_ and EWC TVET College highlights how public-private initiatives can dramatically benefit South Africa’s youth and its economy.
“This programme highlights the immense potential of public sector education when combined with WeThinkCode_’s industry-aligned curriculum,” said Gwatirisa. “TVETs have a national footprint, and with our demand-driven training, we can equip thousands with digital skills, reducing youth unemployment at a faster pace.”
Nyari Samushonga, CEO of WeThinkCode_, added, “Since our academy’s inception in 2016, we’ve demonstrated that exceptional tech talent can emerge from unexpected places. Our 87% post-graduation employment rate across campuses speaks to our success in cultivating top-tier tech skills.”
Thandeka Ncube, intern at LSD Open says, “My experience with the EWC TVET cohort has been incredibly rewarding. I gained a wealth of technical and soft skills, from becoming a better communicator and team player to excelling in programming through exciting projects. The placement at LSD Open has further expanded my horizons, exposing me to a different side of technology. Thanks to the adaptability and continuous learning mindset instilled by WeThinkCode_, I’ve been able to thrive in this new environment. WeThinkCode_ has fundamentally shaped my career, enhancing my problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, and equipping me with essential workplace skills.”
The EWC TVET graduation represents more than just a milestone for students—it signifies a promising leap forward for South Africa’s workforce. “This initiative reflects the impact that sustainable skills development can have through smart, targeted partnerships,” emphasised Samushonga.
Following the success of the EWC TVET programme, WeThinkCode_ has since expanded implementations at Central Johannesburg College (CJC) and South Cape TVET College as part of its ambitious national scaling strategy. This initiative is setting a precedent for future collaborations aimed at building a digitally skilled and employable youth workforce, contributing meaningfully to South Africa’s digital economy and supporting the drive to reduce youth unemployment.
