How to bridge South Africa’s skills divide

As we conclude Youth Month in South Africa, the spotlight is on a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing the digital literacy of girls. GirlCode, established in 2014, is on a mission to empower 10 million women and girls with tech skills by 2030. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Zandile Mkwanazi, the CEO of GirlCode, shed light on the initiative's objectives and progress thus far. GirlCode began as a hackathon, providing a platform for young women fresh from university to engage with tech solutions. Recognizing the underrepresentation of women, particularly black women, in the tech industry, Mkwanazi felt compelled to create a space for self-improvement and upskilling. Over the years, the initiative has gained momentum, with a focus on nurturing tech skills in girls from a young age. One of their programs starts as early as grade four, offering tech classes on weekends. In the ambitious pursuit of empowering 10 million women with digital skills, Mkwanazi acknowledged the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite reaching over 60,000 beneficiaries, the sudden shift to online learning highlighted the digital divide in South Africa. While online platforms offer broad access, the lack of resources such as data and laptops remains a significant barrier for many potential learners. To address these resource challenges, GirlCode has engaged in strategic partnerships with the private sector. Companies like Nespruit Labs and Amazon AWS have played a crucial role in scaling up programs and supporting access to learning materials. Additionally, collaborations with organizations like SouthCyn aim to reduce data costs for beneficiaries and explore zero-rating platforms to enable free access for individuals on the SouthCyn network. Mkwanazi emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, with a call for further involvement from the private and government sectors. Through initiatives like laptop donations and data subsidies, GirlCode strives to create a level playing field for aspiring women in tech. The CEO highlighted the impact of corporates donating second-hand laptops, underscoring the importance of access over the latest technology. For those interested in supporting or participating in GirlCode's programs, information is readily available on their website (www.gocode.co.za) and social media platforms. The initiative actively engages with the community through channels like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram, providing a gateway for young women to access tech education opportunities. Mkwanazi also welcomed direct inquiries through her personal social media accounts, reinforcing GirlCode's commitment to inclusivity and equal access to tech talent. With a vision to foster innovation and inclusivity in the tech industry, GirlCode continues to break barriers and empower women across South Africa. As the digital landscape evolves, initiatives like GirlCode are essential in bridging the skills divide and creating a diverse tech ecosystem for future generations.