Engen celebrated 10 young Steelpoort, Limpopo residents who successfully completed ICT qualifications through the Engen Global Citizen Development Programme (EGCDP) at a graduation ceremony held on 12 March 2026.

The ceremony marked the culmination of a 12-month ICT skills development programme aimed at equipping unemployed youth from surrounding communities with in-demand digital and technical skills.

The graduates completed nationally recognised qualifications in IT Technical Support (NQF Level 4).  The programme combines classroom-based learning with extensive workplace-based training, ensuring learners gain practical, real-world experience in ICT environments.

Launched in 2023 in South Durban, the programme was so successful that it expanded to Steelpoort, providing youth from surrounding communities with access to high-quality ICT training and career development opportunities.

Building on the success of the pilot programme, the initiative has continued to grow, with 31 learners enrolled across KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo as part of the 2025/2026 programme cycle.

 Encouragingly, 25% of learners from the current cohort have already been identified for potential full-time employment through host companies providing workplace-based training, demonstrating the programme’s growing success in transitioning young people from skills development into sustainable economic participation.

“Through the Global Citizen Development Programme, we aim to equip young people with the skills, confidence and workplace exposure needed to pursue meaningful careers in the ICT sector,” said Olwethu Mdabula, Engen CSI Manager.

“The success of these graduates demonstrates the power of investing in education and skills development to unlock opportunities for youth in our neighbouring communities.”

Thando Husha, Client Relationships Manager from Dlama SS Investment Holdings said: “Today’s graduation is a proud moment for these learners and a reflection of the dedication and hard work they have shown throughout the programme. It’s inspiring to see how they have grown in confidence and capability, and we are proud to have supported their journey by equipping them with the skills and guidance needed to succeed in the ICT industry.”

Engen’s skills development and learnership programme forms part of the company’s ongoing commitment to empowering youth and supporting local communities by offering accredited qualifications and hands-on learning experiences aimed at enhancing career prospects.

Engen Skills Development Facilitator, Pontsho Matshediso, stressed the importance of industry-aligned training in ICT, stating:

“The digital economy is evolving rapidly, and equipping young people with future-fit skills is essential. Through the EGCDP, we ensure that our graduates gain both technical expertise and real-world experience, positioning them for success in a competitive job market.”

The initiative aligns with Engen’s support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 – Quality Education and SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth.

The programme forms part of Engen’s broader commitment to youth empowerment and community development. The initiative focuses on bridging the gap between skills development and economic participation by equipping unemployed youth with industry-relevant ICT capabilities and pathways into employment, entrepreneurship and further education.

Engen congratulates the Steelpoort graduates on reaching this important milestone and wishes them success as they pursue careers in the ICT sector and contribute to South Africa’s growing digital economy.