Microsoft South Africa has announced a R1.32 billion investment aimed at developing black-owned SMMEs and enhancing digital skills among unemployed youth over the next decade. The investment aims to tackle South Africa’s high youth unemployment rate (45.5%) by providing essential digital skills and fostering sustainable business growth in the tech and non-tech sectors. This includes R663 million for enterprise development, particularly in tech start-ups and disruptive technologies, as well as R347 million for intensive training and certification courses for young black South Africans. Additionally, R160 million is allocated for R&D projects, including a R50 million investment to introduce emerging technologies into industrialisation initiatives. Microsoft’s commitment also extends to marketing and administrative support to ensure the programme’s success.
