South Africa’s ICT sector has the potential to unlock vital economic growth. There are however needs to be a greater focus placed on skills development to enhance its impact. This is why the Samsung-Sponsored App Factory and Future Innovation Software Development program has just received additional investment, that will further fuel its efforts to increase the number of experienced software developers in the country. 

Samsung South Africa has announced immediate and additional funding for this employment initiative for 2022, which is an essential part of its R280 Million EEIP program. The aim is to assist graduates struggling to find employment where their tertiary education does not cover sufficient theory and practical training. Sponsored graduates will now be equipped with expertise and knowledge that appeals to potential employers, and in this way, the program can make a meaningful difference in South Africa’s ICT sector.

This internship program, in partnership with Microsoft Appfactory, is hosted by The Tshimologong Digital Precinct and the University of the Western Cape. With a total investment in software development over 10 years of R94 Million, the program provides a full scholarship to the students that includes equipment, stipend and tuition fees. 

To date, 311 unemployed youth have participated in the R&D program with 226 students already proud graduates, ready to take their place in the local ICT sector where these skills are highly sought-after. The interns are exposed to high intensity and fast-paced learning over the learnership period – resulting in them gaining invaluable industry experience. The sole responsibility of the senior developer is to focus full-time on the growth of the interns by providing the right mentorship and guiding them on real-world projects. Importantly, the program has also attracted female graduates, who are an integral part of future growth in the sector.

Lindiwe Mncwabe, who is completing an internship at the Samsung App Factory is already reaping the rewards. She now has a job at a leading automotive brand as a java developer, a role that may once have seemed impossible, but one which she’s fully embraced. Raised in Soweto, her references and experience of technology was limited until she was accepted onto the program. It’s with great enthusiasm that she says, “I would like to grow to be one of the most sought-after women developers in the country and in the future have my own technology company. I now dream that I can one day hire young black women and help them hone their craft, for long-term success”

This intern-centred approach by Samsung enables the students to grow their competence and sharpen their skills, and serves as a solid foundation for the graduates to continue to grow and be part of shaping the Fourth Industrial Revolution.