WeThinkCode_, a software development academy bridging the gap between the tech skills shortage and unemployed youth in South Africa, proudly commemorated the graduation of its cohort which commenced in September 2021. The 368 exceptional students from campuses in Durban (79), Cape Town (82), and Johannesburg (207) mark the successful completion of the intensive 16-month programme and celebrate some additional ground-breaking milestones achieved along their journey.
In addition to graduating, the class of 2023 celebrates the milestone of being the first-ever WeThinkCode_ cohort to reach gender parity. Of the 368 students who graduated, 177 are women who will be growing female representation in the software development industry.
With the drive to grow gender inclusion, WeThinkCode_ attracted an increased number of students, with 221 graduates coming from extremely low-income households earning less than R 75 000 per annum. These graduates now have the skills to take up entry-level software development jobs, which on average could see them earn R264 000 a year in Cape Town, R240 000 a year in Johannesburg and R204 000 a year in Durban, according to OfferZen.
“This year, WeThinkCode_ is proud to celebrate the first graduating class of the Durban campus. Funded by our partner ESquared Investments, the expansion to Durban has proven to be a successful venture. Particularly in the face of the many adversities that KwaZulu Natal residents have faced since the launch of the campus. WeThinkCode_ and the Durban graduates have a lot to celebrate in light of this. We look forward to expanding further across South Africa to reach more young people and grow the pipeline of local tech skills through ongoing strategic partnerships with TVET colleges.” said Sethu Komani, Chief Commercial Officer at WeThinkCode_.
With the addition of the Durban campus, the 2021 cohort was the largest group enrolled. Despite this additional capacity, 85% of the cohort graduated this past week and a majority of the graduates (64%) were placed into employment opportunities ahead of graduation. These placements primarily spanned Software Consulting and IT Services, Financial Services (Banking, Insurance, FinTech) and Telecommunications industries.
Kelebogile Motlhamme, the Placements Manager at WeThinkCode_ expressed pride in the institution’s collaborations with esteemed partners such as GK Software, BBD, First National Bank, and Vodacom, who have recruited exceptional talent from the class of 2021 nationally.
WeThinkCode_ 2023 placement by province:
- Gauteng (69%)
- Western Cape (71%)
- KwaZulu Natal (46%)
The largest recruiters of WeThinkCode_ talent this year include GK Software (22 hires), BBD (18 hires), FNB (19 hires) and Vodacom (10 hires). The institution’s enduring partnerships with South Africa’s most innovative companies demonstrate the trust that the market places in their talent pool, reaffirming their commitment to driving positive change in the tech industry.
“The importance of nurturing software development skills in today’s fast-paced digital landscape cannot be overstated. Technology serves as the driving force behind modern innovation, influencing every aspect of our lives, from communication and healthcare to transportation and entertainment. Equipping our youth with these vital skills is paramount to sow the seeds of progress and empower them to shape the future. Graduation is a celebration of young African minds that are ready to create transformative solutions, tackle global challenges, and revolutionize industries in ways that only Africans can,” said Nyari Samushonga, CEO at WeThinkCode_.
WeThinkCode_ remains steadfast in its dedication to training the next generation of tech leaders. As the world looks to an increasingly digital future, the impact of institutions like WeThinkCode_ resonates powerfully, fuelling progress and empowering a diverse and skilled workforce to shape a brighter tomorrow.
To find out more about how you can hire Africa’s top tech talent, contact WeThinkCode_ at placements@wethinkcode.co.za
