Apply for the Microsoft Digital Skills Programme 2026 in Gqeberha. Get Azure training, certification support, workplace experience and a stipend.
Unemployed young people in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, have an opportunity to build valuable technology skills through the Microsoft Digital Skills Programme 2026.
The programme is offered by TWKB Talent Centric in partnership with the National Empowerment Fund (NEF). Moreover, it is designed for young people who want to enter the technology industry but need training and workplace experience.
During the programme, participants will receive Microsoft Azure training. They will also receive work-readiness support and work towards an industry-recognised Microsoft certification.
Furthermore, successful participants will complete six months of workplace experience with a host employer.
The programme runs for approximately 10 months. The first four months focus on training. After that, participants move into six months of workplace experience.
Financial support is also provided. During training, participants receive a R2,000 monthly travel allowance. During workplace experience, they receive a R3,000 monthly stipend.
About the Microsoft Digital Skills Programme
The Microsoft Digital Skills Programme combines technical training with practical workplace preparation.
Instead of focusing only on classroom learning, the programme helps participants prepare for the workplace. As a result, applicants can develop both technical and professional skills.
The programme includes:
- Four months of technical training
- Microsoft Azure training
- Work-readiness training
- Preparation towards Microsoft certification
- Six months of workplace experience
- Placement with a host employer
- Monthly financial support
Therefore, the programme can be useful for unemployed youth who want to start a career in IT and cloud computing.
What Is Microsoft Azure?
Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing platform developed by Microsoft.
Today, many organisations use cloud technology to manage applications, data, servers and digital services. Consequently, Azure skills can be useful in several technology careers.
Participants may gain knowledge that can support future opportunities in areas such as:
- Cloud computing
- IT support
- Systems administration
- Cloud administration
- Technical support
- Infrastructure support
- Networking
- Cybersecurity
- IT operations
- Software and application services
Importantly, applicants do not need to know exactly which IT career they want to follow. Instead, the programme can help them understand different technology career paths.
Microsoft Azure Training
A major part of the programme is Microsoft Azure training.
During this stage, participants will learn about cloud technology and the Microsoft Azure environment. In addition, they will develop knowledge that can be applied in modern workplaces.
Because many businesses are adopting cloud-based systems, these skills can provide a useful foundation for a future technology career.
The training is therefore suitable for young people who are interested in computers, cloud technology and digital services.
Microsoft Certification
Participants will also work towards an industry-recognised Microsoft certification.
Professional certifications can strengthen a CV. They can also show employers that a candidate has developed knowledge in a particular technology area.
However, completing the programme does not automatically mean that every participant will receive certification. Instead, candidates must meet the relevant training and certification requirements.
Work-Readiness Training
Technical skills are important. However, employers also look for people who can communicate, work with others and behave professionally.
For this reason, the programme includes work-readiness training.
Participants may develop skills in:
- Professional communication
- Teamwork
- Time management
- Problem-solving
- CV preparation
- Interview preparation
- Workplace behaviour
- Professional conduct
- Understanding employer expectations
As a result, the training can help participants become better prepared for the workplace.
Four-Month Training Phase
The first part of the programme lasts four months.
During this period, participants will focus on technical and workplace preparation.
The training phase includes:
Microsoft Azure Skills
Participants will develop knowledge of Microsoft Azure and cloud computing.
Work-Readiness Preparation
Participants will learn about workplace expectations and professional behaviour.
R2,000 Monthly Travel Allowance
During the four-month training period, participants receive a R2,000 monthly travel allowance.
If a participant completes all four months and remains eligible, the allowance could total up to R8,000.
Six-Month Workplace Experience
After completing the training phase, successful participants move into six months of workplace experience.
This stage is especially valuable because many young job seekers struggle to find their first opportunity to gain practical experience.
Participants will be placed with a host employer. Therefore, they can gain exposure to a real workplace and apply some of the skills learned during training.
The workplace phase includes:
- Host employer placement
- Practical workplace experience
- Application of newly developed skills
- Experience for the participant’s CV
- R3,000 monthly stipend
If the full six-month period is completed under the stated conditions, the stipend could total R18,000.
Remember, however, that a stipend is not the same as a permanent salary. Also, the programme does not guarantee permanent employment after completion.
Programme Allowance and Stipend
The financial support differs between the two stages.
| Programme Stage | Duration | Financial Support |
|---|---|---|
| Training | 4 months | R2,000 per month |
| Workplace Experience | 6 months | R3,000 per month |
Therefore, participants who complete both stages could receive up to R26,000 in combined allowances and stipends, subject to the programme’s payment conditions.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is aimed at unemployed young people living in Gqeberha.
Suitable applicants should:
- Be unemployed
- Reside in Gqeberha
- Have an interest in technology
- Be interested in cloud computing
- Want to learn Microsoft Azure
- Be willing to complete the training
- Want to gain workplace experience
- Be committed to professional development
Applicants should always provide truthful information.
Furthermore, candidates should check the official application requirements for any additional age, education or documentation requirements.
Location
The advertised opportunity is available to candidates residing in:
Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Therefore, applicants from other areas should first check whether they qualify for this specific intake.
Why Workplace Experience Matters
Getting a first job can be difficult.
Many entry-level vacancies require previous experience. However, young people cannot gain experience if they are never given an opportunity.
The six-month workplace experience component can help address this problem.
During the placement, participants can gain practical exposure. Consequently, they may be able to add new skills and responsibilities to their CV.
Nevertheless, workplace placement should not be viewed as a guarantee of permanent employment.
How to Apply for the Microsoft Digital Skills Programme 2026
There are several advertised application channels.
Option 1: Apply by Email
Applicants can submit their application or enquiry using:
Use a clear subject line, such as:
Microsoft Digital Skills Programme – Gqeberha Application
Before sending your application, make sure your CV includes your correct phone number, email address and location.
Option 2: Online Application
The programme advertisement also provides a QR code for the online application.
Therefore, applicants who have access to the original programme poster can scan the QR code and complete the application form.
Option 3: SAYouth
The opportunity is also advertised through SAYouth.mobi.
Log into your SAYouth profile and search for the relevant Microsoft Digital Skills or TWKB Talent Centric opportunity.
Moreover, make sure your SAYouth profile contains accurate information, especially your residential details.
Documents to Prepare
The exact documents required should be confirmed on the application form.
However, applicants should prepare the following where applicable:
- Updated CV
- South African ID
- Copies of qualifications
- Matric certificate
- Latest qualification
- Proof of residence
- Active email address
- Contactable cellphone number
Do not submit false documents or information.
How to Improve Your CV
Your CV does not need to be complicated.
Instead, keep it clear and easy to read.
Include:
- Full name and surname
- Contact number
- Email address
- Area of residence
- Education
- Qualifications
- Computer skills
- IT courses
- Certificates
- Work experience
- Volunteer experience
- References, where appropriate
Even without formal work experience, you can include school projects, computer skills, volunteer activities and relevant short courses.
Benefits of the Microsoft Digital Skills Programme
The Microsoft Digital Skills Programme 2026 offers several benefits.
First, participants can develop Microsoft Azure and cloud computing skills.
Second, they can improve their workplace readiness.
Third, they can work towards Microsoft certification.
Finally, they can gain six months of practical workplace experience.
Together, these opportunities can help unemployed youth build a stronger foundation for an IT career.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Microsoft Digital Skills Programme 2026?
It is a skills development programme that provides Microsoft Azure training, work-readiness preparation, certification support and workplace experience.
Who offers the programme?
The programme is advertised by TWKB Talent Centric in partnership with the National Empowerment Fund.
Where is the programme available?
The advertised intake is for unemployed young people living in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.
How long is the programme?
The programme consists of four months of training followed by six months of workplace experience. Therefore, the full programme lasts approximately 10 months.
Is there a stipend?
Yes. Participants receive a R2,000 monthly travel allowance during the four-month training phase. Afterwards, participants receive a R3,000 monthly stipend during the six-month workplace phase.
What will I study?
The programme focuses mainly on Microsoft Azure and cloud computing. In addition, participants receive work-readiness training.
Will I receive Microsoft certification?
Participants will work towards an industry-recognised Microsoft certification. However, candidates must meet the applicable requirements.
Do I need work experience?
The programme is aimed at unemployed youth seeking training and workplace experience. Previous employment experience is not stated as a requirement in the supplied programme information.
Can I apply if I live outside Gqeberha?
The advertised intake is specifically aimed at people living in Gqeberha. Therefore, applicants outside the area should look for opportunities available in their location.
Does the programme guarantee a permanent job?
No. The programme provides training and workplace experience. However, no permanent employment guarantee is stated.
Possible Interview Questions
Shortlisted candidates should prepare for interview questions about their interest in technology.
Why do you want to join this programme?
You can explain that you want to develop technology skills, learn Microsoft Azure and gain practical workplace experience.
Why are you interested in cloud computing?
Explain that cloud technology is becoming increasingly important and that you want to develop skills that can support a future IT career.
What do you know about Microsoft Azure?
You can explain that Azure is Microsoft’s cloud computing platform. It provides services such as computing, storage, networking and digital infrastructure.
Can you commit to the full programme?
Tell the interviewer that you understand the programme includes four months of training and six months of workplace experience and that you are prepared to complete both stages.
Important Application Advice
Competition for youth development programmes can be high. Therefore, apply as soon as possible if you meet the requirements.
Also, check your email, phone and SAYouth profile regularly after applying.
Most importantly, never pay anyone who promises to secure you a place. Genuine opportunities should not require payment to guarantee acceptance.
Apply for the Microsoft Digital Skills Programme 2026
If you are unemployed, live in Gqeberha and want to build a career in technology, this opportunity could be worth considering.
The Microsoft Digital Skills Programme 2026 combines Azure training, work-readiness development and practical workplace experience.
Furthermore, the financial support can help participants while they complete the programme.
Email: training@talentcentric.co.za
SAYouth: Search for the opportunity on your SAYouth.mobi profile.
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