CSI

Building technology skills in communities

triangles

To invest in the digital and maths skills needed by future generations

  • Contributing to career development programmes with Afrika Tikkun, building digital skills
  • Bursaries, learnerships and skills programmes for ICT students
  • Strategically partnering with the Maths Centre to enable improved matric results
  • EOH Graduate programme and the One World Leader initiative to nurture leadership skills

EOH believes that the integration of young people into the digital economy is essential in order to future proof a thriving and prosperous South Africa, that has the skills needed to fuel the modern world of work

diagram of equality education

R10,7m

spent on CSI in FY19

An investment in society

EOH’s corporate social investment (‘CSI’) activities prioritise the support of programmes and initiatives focused on youth development in the mathematics, science and technology space. South Africa’s population reached 58,78 million in 2019, with nearly a third falling into the youth (18 to 34 years) category. It is critical that our youth is enabled with the skills that they need to take on opportunities that enable fulfilling careers in digital industries, where there is a critical skills shortage. We partner with key organisations to deliver equitable solutions to quality education, which we see as one of South Africa’s most important needs.

Aligning to national priorities

One of the nine central challenges identified by the National Development Plan is that too few people work and youth unemployment statistics currently sit at 38%. Skills and enterprise development is critical in preparing the youth for career and entrepreneurial opportunities that will help break the cycle of poverty. We need help in providing young adults with the necessary job skills training and guidance so that they can become contributing individuals in the economy and in their communities.

Collaborating on our shared future.

The EOH stand at the maths “Maps and Mirrors” event at Katlehong Technical High School where 10 different schools from the Ekurhuleni South District received insights into career opportunities in the technology sector.

a EOH representer with school kids

SUMMARY OF DIGITAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT:

EOH has invested in the following community-based programmes to build digital skills for the youth:

  • EOH Youth Job Creation initiative: Created in 2012, EOH works in collaboration with customers and partners providing learnerships and internships with over 35 000 reached to date.
  • The Maths Centre initiative: Supporting maths, science and technology and entrepreneurial skills development by equipping learners, teachers and parents.
  • Afrika Tikkun: Providing education, health and social services to young people.
  • Bohlale Village Innovation Hub: Working with learners from disadvantaged schools to gain technology skills, including bursaries that fully cover costs.
  • Youth with Disabilities: Supporting e-Deaf to establish a training centre in rural Mthatha in the Eastern Cape and other parts of the country.