GirlCode Launches New Skills Programme to Bridge Gender Gap in Tech

Tackling Youth Unemployment and Gender Inequality in Tech

In response to South Africa’s growing youth unemployment and persistent gender inequalities within the technology sector, GirlCode has launched a new Digital Skills Employment Acceleration Programme. GirlCode is a leading educational institution dedicated to empowering women in tech. This initiative targets young women aged 18 to 35, providing them with valuable digital skills and career readiness to secure meaningful employment.

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About GirlCode’s Mission

GirlCode aims to bridge the gender gap in tech by facilitating skills advancement. It opens pathways for women and girls to enter and thrive in the technology industry. The organisation’s long-term goal is to empower 10 million women with in-demand tech skills by 2030. This strengthens South Africa’s digital economy while promoting gender equality.

The New Digital Skills Employment Acceleration Programme

The programme spans three months of full-time training. It includes core technical instruction in coding and software development, paired with soft skills like communication, teamwork, and work readiness. Participants receive one-on-one mentorship to guide their learning journey and career planning. To participate, applicants must have access to a notebook and reliable internet.

Closing the Gap Between Learning and Earning

GirlCode founder and CEO Zandile Mkwanazi emphasises that the programme is more than just teaching coding. It aims to create a direct bridge between education and employment.

“We provide women with the tools, support, and access they need to get their foot in the door and stay there,” Mkwanazi says.

The programme’s holistic approach addresses both technical skills and professional development. This increases participants’ chances of sustainable employment.

The Gender Gap in Tech and Youth Unemployment

Statistics from Statistics South Africa paint a concerning picture. Almost half of South African women aged 15 to 34 are unemployed, not in education, or training. In addition, women hold fewer than one in four tech jobs nationally. This underrepresentation highlights the need for targeted interventions like GirlCode’s programme to support women entering the digital economy.

Support and Partnerships

The programme’s first batch of learners received funding through a generous grant from Accenture. GirlCode is actively seeking more partnerships with companies, especially in the tech and digital sectors. They aim to offer job placements, mentorship, and additional funding for future cohorts. Businesses interested in collaboration can contact GirlCode’s CEO directly.

Broader Economic and Social Impact

By equipping young women with digital skills and preparing them for the workforce, GirlCode contributes to their economic empowerment and financial independence. The programme also supports South Africa’s broader goals of reducing unemployment. It fosters inclusive economic growth through digital transformation.

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How to Apply and Programme Requirements

Please note: Applications for this intake closed on 31 August 2025 at 11:59 PM. Prospective applicants are encouraged to look out for future opportunities or prepare for next year’s intake to secure their place.

The GirlCode Python Development Programme is an intensive 3-month online bootcamp. It is designed to equip unemployed young women aged 18 to 35 with practical Python programming skills and work readiness for careers in software development. Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Gender: Female
• Age: 18 to 35 years old
• Unemployed or underemployed
• Basic computer literacy is required (ability to use a laptop, internet access, and general computer skills)
• Must have access to a laptop or desktop computer and stable internet connection
• Working proficiency in English for communication and coursework
• Commitment to full-time participation of approximately 3 months
• Passion for learning coding and software development

The programme includes:

• Live coding classes via Microsoft Teams
• Practical coding assignments
• Mentorship by industry professionals
• Work readiness training
• Career coaching

Participants gain access to a supportive online learning community. They also receive data subsidies if required for internet access during the programme.

To apply, interested candidates can:

• Visit the official GirlCode Python Development Programme page
• Complete the online application form.

The application process involves an initial eligibility verification, followed by aptitude testing and interviews for shortlisted candidates.

GirlCode encourages women from diverse backgrounds across South Africa to apply, especially those from historically disadvantaged communities. The goal is to create equal opportunities and build a strong pipeline of skilled female tech talent. This helps bridge the gender gap in technology.

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Empowering a New Generation of Female Tech Leaders

GirlCode’s Digital Skills Employment Acceleration Programme represents a vital step in addressing youth unemployment. It also tackles the gender gap in South Africa’s technology sector. By equipping young women with practical coding skills, mentorship, and career readiness, GirlCode is not only opening doors to meaningful employment. They are also nurturing future innovators and leaders in tech.

This initiative exemplifies the power of targeted education and support to transform individual lives. It builds a more inclusive, diverse digital economy. For young women passionate about technology and eager to shape South Africa’s future, GirlCode offers a pathway to empowerment, independence, and success.