In a world where digital skills equal opportunity, the Cisco Networking Academy, in partnership with the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), is offering free online tech skills training for South African youth in 2025.
If you’re looking to enter the ICT industry or future-proof your career, this programme offers high-quality, globally recognised digital training—100% free of charge.
What is the Cisco Networking Academy?
The Cisco Networking Academy is a world-leading e-learning platform operating in over 180 countries and having trained more than 17 million learners globally. It delivers interactive, job-focused tech education in fields like:
- Networking
- Cybersecurity
- Programming
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Technical Support
In collaboration with the NYDA, Cisco is now making this training freely accessible to South Africans, especially those in underserved communities.
Courses You Can Take
Participants can enroll in a wide range of self-paced online courses, including:
| Course Title | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| 🛡️ Introduction to Cybersecurity | Threat detection, personal security online, global risks |
| 🌐 Networking Essentials | Basics of networking, routers, switches, LAN/WAN |
| 🔧 Technical Support | IT helpdesk operations, diagnostics, and troubleshooting |
| 🤖 Artificial Intelligence (AI) | Basics of AI, machine learning, and automation trends |
Each course includes interactive modules, real-world simulations, and assessments designed to prepare you for a career in the ICT sector.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- ✅ Be a South African citizen
- 📅 Be aged 18–35
- 🚫 Be unemployed and not enrolled in formal education
- 💻 Have access to a smartphone, tablet, or laptop with internet connectivity
- ♿ Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Don’t have a device or internet? Visit your nearest NYDA Centre—many offer free access to computers and Wi-Fi for this programme.
Benefits of Joining the Cisco–NYDA Programme
- 💸 100% Free Training – No costs involved
- 🌍 Globally Recognised Courses – Learn skills used by tech professionals worldwide
- 🏅 Earn Certifications and Digital Badges – Build a professional portfolio
- 📈 Boost Your Employability – Especially for careers in IT support, cybersecurity, networking
- 🧑💼 Access to Cisco Talent Bridge – Job-matching with Cisco partners globally
- 🎯 Career Guidance from NYDA – Receive help shaping your job search strategy
How to Enroll
- Visit the Cisco Networking Academy Portal
- Register for free and select NYDA as your training partner
- Choose your preferred course
- Begin learning at your own pace, from anywhere in South Africa
👉 Click here to enroll in the Cisco–NYDA Free Tech Skills Programme 2025
📌 Closing Date: Not yet specified, but early registration is encouraged due to high demand.
Final Thoughts
The Cisco–NYDA Free Tech Skills Training Programme is your ticket to becoming digitally empowered in 2025. Whether you want to enter the tech workforce, start your own digital business, or simply keep up with the changing world—this is your opportunity to grow for free.
In a country where youth unemployment is a major challenge, this programme provides real-world training, job support, and a global platform for career success.
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