Vodacom Says TechStart Programme Has Trained Over 400,000 Young People in Digital Skills Since 2024

Marking International Literacy Day 2026 (theme: 'Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity'), Vodacom disclosed on September 8, 2026 that its TechStart programme has trained more than 400,000 young people and delivered 101,628 certifications since 2024. The company also reported 4 million beneficiaries reached via e-learning platforms and school connectivity in its FY2026, 9,441 girls trained through the Code Like A Girl programme, and — via its Tanzania partnership with Twaweza East Africa — 79,390 early-grade learners supported, 121,832 teachers given access to a zero-rated training platform, and 256 schools covered. Vodacom's Digital Skills Hub targets one million young Africans by 2027 across South Africa, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Mozambique, Lesotho, Egypt, DRC and Kenya. 'Access to connectivity must be matched with digital skills to ensure people can effectively use technology, access information and participate in the digital economy,' the company said.