Educational initiative launches to upskill unemployed locals 

The National Electronic Media Institute in South Africa (NEMISA), a not-for-profit organisation focused on education, has partnered with the global online learning platform Coursera. The partnership aims to upskill unemployed and under-employed individuals in South Africa. 

The initiative aims to build an upskilling programme for unemployed and under-employed citizens in nine provinces across the country

Trevor Rammitlwa, CEO of NEMISA provides insight into what the partnership will provide for locals. 

“It’s exciting to see South Africa becoming more proficient across many digital skills, according to Coursera’s 2021 Global Skills Report. We’re thrilled that our partnership with Coursera will allow the local workforce to access more than 5 000 world-class courses from leading university and industry partners to support the country and its citizens in our journey towards becoming digital-first.”

Upskilling locals

The initiative, spearheaded by NEMISA is focused on providing educational resources and courses to upskill and strengthen the country’s skills proficiency in key digital domains like machine learning and software development.

The programme was born out of the desire to fill the existing gaps in unemployment and skills required in prominent sectors. In addition, the initiative aims to contribute to the growth of the local economy which has reportedly declined significantly and resulted in an unemployment rate of over 20%.

According to reports, the programme will initially roll out in Limpopo, Kwazulu Natal, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, North West, Free State, Northern Cape, Gauteng, and Mpumalanga.

Anthony Tattersall, VP of EMEA, Coursera comments on the partnership and the importance of upskilling locals to enter the workforce and secure employment.

“We’re honored to partner with NEMISA to help thousands of citizens earn the skills they need to re-enter the workforce in high-demand digital domains. NEMISA’s programme will play an important role in unlocking the country’s full potential in these areas.”

How to apply

Interested applicants can apply to take part in the available course by completing an online form. 

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Featured image: Supplied