IBM launches literacy program in South Africa
In South Africa, IBM has partnered with the NYDA (National Youth Development Agency) to close the digital divide for young South Africans, improve digital literacy and prepare them for active success in the workplace of the century 21 with the essential skills for this turbulent era.
IBM says that young South Africans are facing extreme hardship in South Africa, as only about 24% of them have jobs – and more than 3 million young people between the ages of 18 and 24 are not employed. According to Statistics South Africa, young people aged 15-24 and 25-34 have the highest unemployment rates of any age group at 64.4% and 42.9% respectively – the need highlights increasing public and private sector collaboration in education and training that keep pace with market demands, demographic shifts and technological progress.
To achieve that goal, IBM has detailed a clear roadmap with more than 170 new academic and industry partnerships. The effort will leverage IBM’s existing programs and career-building platforms to expand access to on-demand education and technical functions.