Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Microsoft and the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) have teamed up to launch a solar-powered mobile digital lab at the Royal Bafokeng Institute, in Phokeng, in the North West.

The lab, designed to ensure reliable, sustainable access to technology and learning, even in areas where infrastructure has traditionally been a barrier, aims to prepare participants for careers in the digital economy.

This will be done through technical training, professional development, mentorship and industry-recognised Microsoft certifications, with a curriculum that focuses on digital literacy and AI foundations, covering Microsoft 365, Teams, Copilot and AI fluency.

“Digital inclusion must be practical, scalable and sustainable if it is to create long-term economic impact,” said Cassava Technologies South Africa and Botswana senior VP and CEO Ziaad Suleman.

“The mobile digital lab allows us to reach even more young people with meaningful digital learning opportunities. Through this partnership, we are empowering communities with intelligent technologies and skills that support participation in the modern economy,” he said, highlighting the success of the group’s Mthatha Innovation Digital Skills Centre (IDSC) in the Eastern Cape, which showed the immense demand and exceptional potential within underserved communities.

The IDSC, in Mthatha, has, to date, enrolled and trained 515 learners, achieved a 96% pass rate and helped 149 learners secure employment opportunities directly linked to the digital skills acquired through the programme.

The Royal Bafokeng Institute has always prioritised investment in people as a foundation for sustainable development, added Royal Bafokeng Institute CEO Enki Pitsoe, noting that the initiative aligns strongly with the institute’s commitment to education and community development.

“This mobile digital lab brings world-class technology, connectivity and learning opportunities directly into our community, helping young people build practical digital skills that can support long-term economic participation.”

The current cohort of learners is completing a three-month intensive programme focused on mastering the Microsoft Power Platform, leading to internationally recognised certifications in Power Platform Fundamentals, Functional Consultant and Developer.

This combination creates a ‘Fusion Developer’ profile, one of the most sought-after skills in the modern digital economy.

“The initiative, together with the resounding success of the IDSC, demonstrates Liquid’s commitment to supporting South Africa’s broader digital transformation and youth employability objectives while reinforcing the role of connectivity in modern education delivery,” Suleman continued.

The launch of the digital mobile lab represents a coordinated effort between Liquid, Microsoft and the DCDT to accelerate South Africa’s digital transformation while ensuring that no community is left behind.

“This initiative showcases the impact of public-private partnerships, combining the strengths of industry and government to bring digital connectivity, skills development and meaningful economic opportunity directly to the Royal Bafokeng community.”