Contributors: Thula Zondi | Margo le Roux | Pascale Du Toit
The Social Employment Fund (SEF) is helping bridge South Africa’s digital divide by combining meaningful work opportunities with digital skills development, connectivity, and access to technology. Through its network of Strategic Implementing Partners, the programme is equipping participants with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in a digital economy while supporting community development across sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, community safety, and the creative industries.
From community Wi-Fi networks and digital mapping initiatives to digital health screenings and online learning platforms, the SEF is demonstrating how technology can create pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, and social impact. By placing digital inclusion at the centre of social employment, the programme is building a scalable model for empowering communities and enabling broader participation in South Africa’s economic future.
Download the full case study here.
Acquiring work-ready farming skills (Gauteng)
Personal development Puseletso Kekana joined the SEF programme in August 2022 as a first-time team leader. The role was a steep learning curve, dealing with people and resolving daily issues was a transformative experience that contributed to his personal growth....
From timekeeper to running her own beauty spa (Mpumalanga)
Where it began Thandeka Mashinini started with the SEF project in August 2022 as a timekeeper. During her time on the project she gained great leadership and interpersonal skills that would support her bigger dream of becoming a beauty spa owner. While working on the...
Why social employment should be institutionalised in South Africa
With guest Dr Rejoice Shumba, CEO, Siyakholwa