Forge Academy & Labs, South Africa's first fully inclusive 4IR laboratory, powered by Nokia, is on the hunt for ten youth between the ages of 22 to 30 to partake in their digital 4IR apprenticeship programme. 

The digital programme will upskill candidates in the 4IR sector using theoretical studies and practical work experience. The journey includes lab simulations where apprentices immerse themselves in 4IR technology and upon completing the programme, the candidates will have an opportunity to secure employment within a relevant ICT company.

The selected candidates will start with a workplace readiness foundation phase. This foundation phase equips candidates with skills for marketplace success. It includes an EQ (emotional intelligence) workshop and an online MBTI personality test. The skills acquired in this workshop include being a productive team member, flexibility, problem-solving, resourcefulness, giving and receiving feedback, self-confidence, creative thinking and emotional intelligence.

"To be successful in the workplace requires more than knowledge of the subject matter. Critical employability skills include building and managing successful relationships. The marketplace is about people first. Understanding and relating to peers is essential in building a successful career. This course looks to take candidates from where they are to a deeper level of understanding of being a great team player within an organization," said Craig Clutty, COO of Forge Academy & Labs.

Following the EQ workshop there are four career development options an apprentice can choose from: 

●     Support Professional

• MOS (Microsoft Office Specialist) Certification Preparation
• CompTIA ITF+ Certification Preparation

●     Networking Professional

• Cisco CCNA Certification 
• PreparationCompTIA Network+ Certification Preparation

●     Cyberdefense Professional

• CyberDefense Pro Certification
• CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CS0-002)

●     Digital Marketing

• Recognized International Certification

If you are based in Johannesburg and meet the following minimum requirements, please apply for our digital apprenticeship programme:

1.       Age: 22-30.

2.       Location: Johannesburg. Must be able to travel.

3.       Experience: Learnership, apprenticeship, internship or working experience.

Education level: Minimum grade 12.

1.       Maths minimum 50%.

2.       Maths literacy minimum 70%.

Computer literate: a must.

Language: must speak English.

"We are looking forward to receiving our apprentices during youth month. The 4IR is here, and this is the future marketplace. Our youth have to be equipped for employability options and compete in the new digital economy. There is no better way to do this than with practical, hands-on experience and mentorship", Arthur Wade Anderson, CEO of Forge Academy.

Click here to apply for the Digital Apprenticeship. Applications close 24th June 2022.