Seseko and Microsoft South Africa scale digital skills training across underserved schools

Programme introduces AI, robotics and coding to 48 schools while combining equipment, teacher training and youth employment support

Seseko, a South African education and skills development organisation, has partnered with Microsoft South Africa to deliver a nationwide programme focused on digital skills, reaching 48 underserved schools across all nine provinces in its first phase.

The initiative is designed to introduce learners to artificial intelligence, robotics and coding through a combination of classroom resources and practical activities. Schools participating in the programme received robotics kits and curriculum-aligned learning materials, enabling students to engage directly with the technologies being taught. At the same time, teachers underwent training and received accreditation from the South African Council for Educators, with the aim of ensuring continuity of the programme within the school system.

According to the ITWeb, the programme also reflects ongoing challenges in South Africa’s education sector, where access to digital infrastructure remains uneven. Data from the World Bank indicates that many learners in low-income communities still lack the tools needed for digital learning, creating gaps in skills development as demand for technology-related capabilities grows.

Beyond classroom delivery, the programme also includes an employment component. A total of 96 youth facilitators were recruited to support implementation across participating schools over a 12-month period. These facilitators assist educators, support lesson delivery and help maintain student engagement, while gaining practical work experience.

The integration of coding and robotics into the national curriculum has been identified as a priority by the Department of Basic Education, although schools continue to face constraints related to infrastructure and teacher readiness. By combining equipment provision, curriculum alignment and educator training, the programme presents a model that addresses these challenges simultaneously.

“At Seseko, we are driven by a simple but powerful belief – that every learner, regardless of their background, deserves access to the skills that will shape the future,” said Bradley Maseko. “This programme is about more than introducing technology into classrooms; it is about unlocking potential, building confidence and creating real opportunities for young people to participate in the digital economy.”

He added, “Our partnership with Microsoft South Africa demonstrates what is possible when organisations come together with a shared vision. By combining infrastructure, training and ongoing support, we are not only bridging the digital divide but also laying the foundation for long-term, sustainable impact in underserved communities.”

Following the first phase, the organisations are assessing options to expand the programme to additional schools, with a focus on extending access to digital skills training and strengthening implementation in communities with limited resources.