{"id":27023,"date":"2025-09-03T16:50:41","date_gmt":"2025-09-03T14:50:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=27023"},"modified":"2026-03-12T09:54:48","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T07:54:48","slug":"girlcode-launches-new-skills-programme","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/girlcode-launches-new-skills-programme\/","title":{"rendered":"GirlCode Launches New Skills Programme to Bridge Gender Gap in Tech"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>Table of contents<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#girlcode-launches-new-skills-programme-to-bridge-g\" data-level=\"2\">Tackling Youth Unemployment and Gender Inequality in Tech<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#about-girlcodes-mission\" data-level=\"2\">About GirlCode\u2019s Mission<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#the-new-digital-skills-employment-acceleration-pro\" data-level=\"2\">The New Digital Skills Employment Acceleration Programme<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#closing-the-gap-between-learning-and-earning\" data-level=\"2\">Closing the Gap Between Learning and Earning<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#the-gender-gap-in-tech-and-youth-unemployment\" data-level=\"2\">The Gender Gap in Tech and Youth Unemployment<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#support-and-partnerships\" data-level=\"2\">Support and Partnerships<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#broader-economic-and-social-impact\" data-level=\"2\">Broader Economic and Social Impact<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#how-to-apply-and-get-involved\" data-level=\"2\">How to Apply and Programme Requirements<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#empowering-a-new-generation-of-female-tech-leaders\" data-level=\"2\">Empowering a New Generation of Female Tech Leaders<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"girlcode-launches-new-skills-programme-to-bridge-g\">Tackling Youth Unemployment and Gender Inequality in Tech<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In response to South Africa\u2019s growing youth unemployment and persistent gender inequalities within the technology sector, GirlCode has launched a new <strong>Digital Skills Employment Acceleration Programme.<\/strong> GirlCode is a leading educational institution dedicated to empowering women in tech. This <strong>initiative targets young women aged 18 to 35,<\/strong> providing them with <strong>valuable digital skills<\/strong> and <strong>career readiness to secure meaningful employment.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ALSO READ:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/sarb-bursary-programme\/\">SARB Bursary Programme (2026)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-3128534228\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"about-girlcodes-mission\">About GirlCode\u2019s Mission<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>GirlCode aims to <strong>bridge the gender gap in tech<\/strong> by facilitating skills advancement. It opens pathways for women and girls to enter and thrive in the technology industry. <strong>The organisation\u2019s long-term goal is to empower 10 million women with in-demand tech skills by 2030.<\/strong> This strengthens South Africa\u2019s digital economy while promoting gender equality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-new-digital-skills-employment-acceleration-pro\">The New Digital Skills Employment Acceleration Programme<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The programme spans <strong>three months of full-time training<\/strong>. It includes <strong>core technical instruction in coding and software development<\/strong>, paired with <strong>soft skills like communication, teamwork, and work readiness.<\/strong> Participants receive <strong>one-on-one mentorship<\/strong> to guide their learning journey and career planning. <strong>To participate, applicants must have access to a notebook and reliable internet.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-4237416385\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"closing-the-gap-between-learning-and-earning\">Closing the Gap Between Learning and Earning<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>GirlCode founder and CEO Zandile Mkwanazi emphasises that the programme is more than just teaching coding. <strong>It aims to create a direct bridge between education and employment. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cWe provide women with the tools, support, and access they need to get their foot in the door and stay there,\u201d Mkwanazi says. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>The programme\u2019s holistic approach <a href=\"http:\/\/www.techsmart.co.za\/news\/Digital-skills-programme-for-woman-launched-to-tackle-youth-unemployment-in-SA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">addresses both<\/a> technical skills and professional development. This <strong>increases participants\u2019 chances of sustainable employment<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-gender-gap-in-tech-and-youth-unemployment\">The Gender Gap in Tech and Youth Unemployment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Statistics from Statistics South Africa paint a concerning picture. <strong>Almost half of South African women aged 15 to 34 are unemployed, not in education, or training.<\/strong> In addition, women hold fewer than one in four tech jobs nationally. This underrepresentation highlights the need for <strong>targeted interventions like GirlCode\u2019s programme to support women entering the digital economy.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-2227347532\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"support-and-partnerships\">Support and Partnerships<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The programme\u2019s 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. <strong>They aim to offer job placements, mentorship, and additional funding for future cohorts.<\/strong> Businesses interested in collaboration can contact GirlCode\u2019s CEO directly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"broader-economic-and-social-impact\">Broader Economic and Social Impact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>By equipping young women with digital skills and preparing them for the workforce, GirlCode contributes to their economic empowerment and financial independence. <strong>The programme also supports South Africa\u2019s broader goals of reducing unemployment.<\/strong> It fosters inclusive economic growth through digital transformation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>LEARN MORE:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nasi-ispani.co.za\/employment-opportunities-online-via-essa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Apply for Employment Opportunities Online via ESSA in 2025 (Employment Services of South Africa)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-3456616513\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-apply-and-get-involved\">How to Apply and Programme Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>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\u2019s intake to secure their place.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The GirlCode Python Development Programme is an intensive <strong>3-month online bootcamp<\/strong>. It is designed to equip <strong>unemployed young women aged 18 to 35<\/strong> with practical Python programming skills and work readiness for careers in software development. Applicants should meet the following requirements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Gender: Female<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Age: 18 to 35 years old<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unemployed or underemployed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Basic computer literacy is required (ability to use a laptop, internet access, and general computer skills)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Must have access to a laptop or desktop computer and stable internet connection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Working proficiency in English for communication and coursework<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Commitment to full-time participation of approximately 3 months<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Passion for learning coding and software development<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The programme includes: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Live coding classes via Microsoft Teams <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Practical coding assignments <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mentorship by industry professionals <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Work readiness training <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Career coaching<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Participants gain access to a supportive online learning community. They also receive data subsidies if required for internet access during the programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To apply, interested candidates can: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Visit the official <a href=\"https:\/\/www.girlcode.co.za\/program\/python-development\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GirlCode Python Development Programme<\/a> page <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Complete the online application form. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The application process involves an initial eligibility verification, followed by aptitude testing and interviews for shortlisted candidates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>GirlCode encourages women from diverse backgrounds across South Africa to apply, especially those from historically disadvantaged communities.<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CHECK OUT:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nasi-ispani.co.za\/job-shadowing-opportunities\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Secure Job Shadowing Opportunities in South Africa<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"empowering-a-new-generation-of-female-tech-leaders\">Empowering a New Generation of Female Tech Leaders<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>GirlCode\u2019s Digital Skills Employment Acceleration Programme<\/strong> represents a vital step in addressing youth unemployment. It also tackles the gender gap in South Africa\u2019s technology sector. By e<strong>quipping young women with practical coding skills, mentorship, and career readiness<\/strong>, GirlCode is not only opening doors to meaningful employment. They are also nurturing future innovators and leaders in tech. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This initiative exemplifies the power of targeted education and support to transform individual lives. <strong>It builds a more inclusive, diverse digital economy<\/strong>. For young women passionate about technology and eager to shape South Africa\u2019s future, GirlCode offers a pathway to empowerment, independence, and success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Technically Speaking Episode 1 : Investing in women\" width=\"755\" height=\"425\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/L5TX2ADDzNc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/L5TX2ADDzNc?si=9dfCjI3vtqqlQwLT\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">YouTube<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>GirlCode launches a new Digital Skills Employment Acceleration Programme for young South African women, bridging the gender gap in tech and tackling youth unemployment with career-focused training.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":27033,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"GirlCode launches a new Digital Skills Employment Acceleration Programme for young South African women, bridging the gender gap in tech and tackling youth unemployment with career-focused training.","footnotes":""},"categories":[68],"tags":[1170,8455,838],"class_list":{"0":"post-27023","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-education","8":"tag-digital-skills-gap","9":"tag-gender-equality","10":"tag-skills-gap"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27023","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27023"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27023\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27035,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27023\/revisions\/27035"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27033"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27023"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27023"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27023"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}