Digital Literacy Skills for Future Leaders

The Digital Literacy Skills for the Future Project recently celebrated a momentous occasion at the BankSETA Digital Literacy Skills for Future Awards Ceremony, honouring the graduation of 51 matriculants who completed their digital literacy training in 2024.

This heartfelt ceremony took place at the Bellville Campus and symbolised a significant step in empowering young learners through the transformative power of technology and digital education.

The participants in this project hailed from Langa and Lotus High Schools. Many of these learners started with little to no digital literacy skills, often feeling unsure of themselves in the digital realm. However, with dedicated support from CPUT facilitators and the encouragement of their peers, the Advancement Department has witnessed remarkable growth in their technical abilities and self-confidence. Their journeys were not just about acquiring skills; they discovered a sense of belonging and possibility.

The learning areas explored throughout the project included:

• Introduction to Computer Hardware and Software
• Introduction to Microsoft Office Programs
• Cybersecurity and Digital Citizenship
• Internet and Email Usage
• Introduction to Information Technology (IT)
• Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Blockchain and Cryptocurrency
• Introduction to Programming Basics

Mandla Maseko, director of the Advancement Department, spoke from the heart about the importance of these skills as the learners prepare for their next steps in higher education. During the ceremony, the learners proudly demonstrated their new skills by building robots and competing in an exciting robot race. Lotus High School was celebrated as the winning school and received well-deserved prizes. Additionally, the learners were awarded certificates and gifted the tablets they used throughout their training—tools that will continue to support their education.

Waldon Hendricks, a compassionate lecturer in the Information Technology Department, emphasised the significance of integrating STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—into their learning experiences. He shared an inspiring message: “As they move forward, these learners carry with them not just knowledge, but the confidence and courage to pursue whatever career path they choose.”

Inga Dlephu, a learner from Langa High School, expressed her heartfelt gratitude: “I would like to thank BankSETA and CPUT for believing in us and teaching us valuable skills. We’ve learned so much—from things we didn’t know much about to discovering new interests. This programme didn’t just teach us; it opened doors and created a community where we felt supported.”

Maseko concluded with words of appreciation for BankSETA's vital support, saying: “Thank you for standing by us. We hope to continue this meaningful journey together next year. And to all our incredible learners—thank you for your dedication and resilience, even when faced with challenges. Your hard work truly inspires change.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: boyceap@cput.ac.za