As South Africa marks Youth Month, Engen proudly celebrates the power of education and digital empowerment to unlock potential, spotlighting the inspiring journeys of young people whose lives have been transformed through the Engen Community Computer School and the Engen Global Citizen Development Programme (EGCDP).

Thobeka Ngobese from Umlazi graduated from Engen’s free four-month computer course in December 2024 and has since progressed into the year-long, accredited ICT learnership offered by EGCDP.

“It wasn’t just a certificate; it’s a sign of accomplishment — a symbol that I started something and was able to finish it,” says Thobeka. “Thank you, Engen for giving me this opportunity. Technology is changing and improving every day, and these are skills I’ll carry with me forever.”

Another stand out learner is Natasha Moonsamy from South Durban who says the course has ignited an entrepreneurial spark in her. “This was my stepping stone,” she says. “It helped me develop discipline, study habits, and a vision for the future. I even started my own PC repair business!”

Their stories represent just two of the 17 top-performing learners who graduated from the Engen Computer School in December 2024 and were accepted into the EGCDP. The EGCDP offers NQF Level 4 and 5 qualifications in Technical Support and Systems Development, combining theory and workplace experience to build industry-relevant ICT capabilities.

“The digital economy is evolving rapidly, and equipping young people with future-fit ICT skills is essential,” says Dee Mdeka, Engen’s Skills Development Facilitator. “Through the EGCDP, our graduates gain technical expertise and real-world experience, positioning them for success in a competitive job market.”

Since its launch in 2009, the Engen Community Computer School in Wentworth has trained 3,374 unemployed individuals in foundational digital skills — all free of charge. Recent impact data showed that 28% of graduates gained employment, 10% pursued further studies, and 6% progressed into structured learnerships like the EGCDP.

“At Engen, we believe that education is the key to economic freedom,” says Olwethu Mdabula, Engen’s CSI Manager. “This Youth Month, we salute the resilience and ambition of South Africa’s youth and reaffirm our commitment to creating tangible opportunities for them to succeed.”

Launched in 2023, the EGCDP includes not only technical training but also life skills and workplace readiness modules — bridging the gap between education and employment.

Earlier this year, the EGCDP expanded to Steelpoort, Mpumalanga, where 10 learners have begun their transformative journey in ICT.

“This is about more than training; it’s about systemic impact,” says Simlindele Manqina, Engen’s Head of Transformation and Stakeholder Engagement. “We’re building sustainable futures, investing in youth, and actively contributing to South Africa’s digital transformation.”

As Engen continues to invest in Quality Education (SDG 4) and promote Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), the company remains steadfast in its purpose: to power possibility and enable progress — one learner, one skill, and one opportunity at a time.

“To Thobeka, Natasha, and all the EGCDP learners: your journey is just beginning. May your courage and commitment inspire many more to follow,” concluded Mdabula.