By Inside Biz
Through MTN’s bold commitment to the future, the lives of over 2500 students are about to change.
These are students who have taken the opportunity that comes through 2500 Skills Academy licenses to learn various skills courses for free.
Designed as a platform to bridge the widening gap between the high demand for digital skills and the limited supply of young talent with these competencies, the MTN Skills Academy has quickly become a transformative force in the lives of Eswatini’s youth.
The initiative has already made a significant impact in Eswatini, with 2,500 free licenses made available through the MTN Foundation.
To date, over 1,680 young people have eagerly taken up the opportunity to enhance their digital skills, a testament to the country’s hunger for growth and development in this sector. The results have been nothing short of remarkable.
At the time of the recent award ceremony, 212 certificates had been issued to successful participants, including 87 earned by groups from the Ludzeludze and Nhlangano Incubation Centres.
Both centres, run by Junior Achievement Eswatini, offer free Internet access, further removing barriers to education and ensuring equitable access to these vital resources. The program has also seen an increasing number of female participants, highlighting its role in driving gender equality in the digital landscape.
At its core, the Skills Academy aims to empower young people with the skills they need to thrive in today’s increasingly digital economy. Through a comprehensive range of courses—spanning software development, data analysis, product analysis, social media management, and more—the program equips participants with practical, industry-relevant knowledge.
These offerings, coupled with personalized career guidance, help learners discover and pursue pathways that align with their strengths and aspirations.
“We launched the Skills Academy to help young people tap into the incredible opportunities of the digital age,” the CEO, represented by Evidence Ntshalintshal, said.
“The demand for digital skills is growing, and we want to ensure that our youth are ready to seize those opportunities. It’s not just about providing training; it’s about creating futures.”
Mfundo Mamba expressed gratitude at the opportunity that has seen him bagging 11 certificates.
“I will never stop pursuing these courses. They have given me skills I did not have for free,” he said.
3 Free Courses Qualify One For Career Academy
Young people across Eswatini are taking charge of their futures with MTN Skills Academy. Those who complete 3 courses qualify for the Career Academy, offering even more advanced opportunities. With 237 licenses still available, the door is open for YOU to gain life-changing skills and help uplift your community.
Young people who have completed at least three courses in MTN Skills Academy are then eligible for enrolment in the Career Academy, which offers even more advanced, long-term courses.
With 13 students already enrolled and 237 licenses still available, the potential for continued impact remains substantial.
While the individual success stories are inspiring, the MTN Skills Academy is about more than just personal development. The program is helping to build stronger communities by contributing to the broader economic and social growth of Eswatini.
Every graduate of the program represents not just a skilled individual but a potential change agent who can help drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation within their communities.
As MTN CEO, Wandile Mtshali, noted, “The Skills Academy is about empowering not just individuals but entire communities. We are providing the tools that young people need to contribute to the digital economy and, in turn, help uplift their families and neighborhoods.”
“We invite all young people to take full advantage of this resource,” the CEO said in closing. “Together, we can shape a future where digital skills are the key to unlocking new possibilities and brighter futures for all.”
In a world increasingly driven by technology, MTN Skills Academy is a beacon of hope, providing the tools, resources, and support needed to ensure that the youth of Eswatini—and beyond—are equipped for the jobs of tomorrow. Through this initiative, MTN is not only transforming individual lives but also contributing to the sustained development of communities and economies across the continent.
One of the students, Cebile Nxumalo, said she has completed 18 courses offered through the platform.
“I am very grateful for this opportunity and it has benefitted me a lot by sharpening some skills I lacked yet are so much relevant in this digital era,” she said.