The MSME ICT Development & New Venture Skills Training Programme for Gauteng Youth 2026 is a valuable opportunity for unemployed young people who want to build future-ready digital skills while learning how to start and manage their own businesses. This initiative focuses on software development combined with entrepreneurship and new venture creation, giving participants both technical and business knowledge.
Hosted by Itani Technology Investments, in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED), the programme aims to empower Gauteng youth with skills that support employment, innovation, and self-employment.
What is the MSME ICT Development & New Venture Skills Training Programme for Gauteng Youth 2026?
This programme is an 8-month skills development initiative designed to prepare unemployed youth for careers in the ICT sector or for launching their own small businesses. It combines practical digital training with entrepreneurial education, helping participants become job-ready or business-ready.
The programme targets youth who may not yet have access to higher education but are motivated to gain industry-relevant skills.
Training Focus Areas: Software Development and New Venture Creation Skills
Participants will receive training in two key areas:
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Software Development – building digital literacy, coding fundamentals, and practical ICT skills
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New Venture Creation – entrepreneurship training covering business planning, innovation, and MSME development
This dual focus ensures learners are equipped with both technical skills and the mindset needed to create sustainable income opportunities.
Who is Hosting the MSME ICT Development Programme in Gauteng?
The programme is hosted by Itani Technology Investments, a company known for delivering technology-focused skills development initiatives. The project is supported by the Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED) as part of its broader youth empowerment strategy.
This partnership ensures that the training aligns with provincial economic and skills development goals.
Programme Duration and Learning Structure of MSME ICT Training 2026
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Programme Duration: 8 months
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Learning Approach: Structured training combining theory, practical skills, and entrepreneurial development
The programme is designed to progressively build skills, allowing participants to grow in confidence and capability over the training period.
Who Can Apply for MSME ICT Development & New Venture Skills Programme 2026?
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Be unemployed
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Be a South African citizen
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Reside in Gauteng Province
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Be motivated to learn ICT and entrepreneurship skills
The programme is aimed at youth who are serious about improving their employability or starting their own ventures.
Minimum Qualification and Age Requirements for MSME ICT Training
Applicants must:
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Be between 18 and 34 years old
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Have a minimum of Matric
These requirements ensure that participants have the basic educational foundation needed to benefit from the training.
Why Unemployed Gauteng Youth Should Apply for MSME ICT Skills Programme
This programme offers multiple benefits, including:
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Access to in-demand ICT skills
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Entrepreneurship and business development training
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Improved chances of employment or self-employment
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Support aligned with Gauteng’s economic development goals
For many participants, this training can be a stepping stone into the digital economy.
How to Apply via SA Youth Portal for MSME ICT Development Programme
Applications must be submitted through the SA Youth portal.
Application steps:
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Visit sayouth.co.za
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Log in or create an SA Youth profile
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Search for the MSME ICT Development & New Venture Skills Training Programme
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Complete the application form and submit
Ensure that your profile information is accurate and up to date.
MSME ICT Development Programme 2026 Closing Date and Deadline
Closing Date: 13 February 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible, as late applications will not be considered.
MSME ICT Programme Enquiries and Official Contact Details
For further information or application support:
Enquiries Email: apply@itani.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the MSME ICT Development & New Venture Skills Training Programme?
It is an 8-month training programme that combines ICT skills development with entrepreneurship training.
2. Who can apply for the programme?
Unemployed South African youth living in Gauteng, aged 18–34, with at least Matric.
3. Is this programme only for people with IT backgrounds?
No, the programme is open to beginners who meet the minimum requirements.
4. How long does the training last?
The training runs for 8 months.
5. Where do I apply for the programme?
Applications are submitted via the SA Youth portal (sayouth.co.za).
6. Is this programme free?
The programme is government-supported and focused on youth development.
7. What skills will I gain from this programme?
You will gain software development skills and entrepreneurial knowledge.
8. Is Gauteng residency compulsory?
Yes, only Gauteng residents are eligible to apply.
9. What is the closing date for applications?
The closing date is 13 February 2026.
10. Who can I contact for more information?
You can email apply@itani.com for official enquiries.
Hi, I’m Elize, a South African education expert and professional writer. I specialize in learnerships, internships, scholarships, and bursaries, helping students and young professionals find the right opportunities and navigate their applications with confidence. My goal is to make education and career resources easy to understand and accessible, so you can achieve your academic and professional dreams.