CISCO Networking Academy IT Programme 2026

CISCO Networking Academy IT Programme. Finding your place in South Africa’s fast-changing job market can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re unemployed, unsure of where to start, or worried about not having an IT qualification. But here’s some powerful news for young people living in Ekurhuleni:

The City of Ekurhuleni, in partnership with CISCO Networking Academy, is offering FREE accredited IT courses for 2026 — and applications are officially open!

This programme is not just another short course. It is globally recognised, practical, youth-friendly and designed to give you real digital skills that employers look for. Whether you dream of working in IT, cybersecurity, technical support, AI, or simply want to become digitally confident, this opportunity is built for you.

The best part?
You can complete these online courses on your phone, at home, or on public-access computers at any CoE library.

Let’s unpack this life-changing opportunity in a simple, motivating, and practical way — Edupstairs style.

Quick Overview

Opportunity	CISCO Networking Academy IT Programme 2026
Location	City of Ekurhuleni Libraries
Cost	Completely FREE
Mode of Learning	Online (mobile/PC) or at any CoE library
Who Can Apply	Unemployed youth (18–35) in Ekurhuleni with Grade 12
Course Areas	Digital Literacy, Hardware & OS, Cybersecurity, Networking & AI
Closing Date	15 December 2025
Start Date	02 February 2026
Apply Online	https://tinyurl.com/CISCONov2025
Enquiries	info.libraries@ekurhuleni.gov.za

About CISCO Networking Academy

CISCO Networking Academy is a world-leading digital skills training platform used in over 180 countries. Their courses are internationally respected, and thousands of young people have used CISCO certifications to break into IT, networking, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

City of Ekurhuleni Libraries

CoE Libraries are well-known for empowering local communities through education, ICT access, free internet, and digital skills training. Their partnership with CISCO aims to uplift the municipality’s unemployed youth by giving them future-ready digital skills that open real employment pathways.

This partnership shows the City’s commitment to preparing young people for a digital economy — especially those who may not have the means to attend college or university.

Why This Programme Matters

South Africa’s job market is shifting rapidly. More careers — even non-IT jobs — now require strong digital literacy, cybersecurity awareness, and basic computer skills. Employers consistently report a shortage of candidates with digital competencies.

This free programme helps bridge that gap by offering skills in:

Digital literacy (a must-have for every modern job)
Cybersecurity (one of the fastest-growing global careers)
Computer hardware & operating systems
Networking and AI foundations

Even if you’re starting from zero, this programme gently walks you through beginner-friendly IT concepts and builds your confidence step by step.

What You Will Study (Course Breakdown)

You’ll be introduced to four high-demand digital skills areas:

Introduction to Digital Literacy

Perfect for beginners. Learn how to:

Use computers and mobile devices effectively
Work with digital tools
Understand online safety
Use modern digital platforms for work & study

Introduction to Computer Hardware & Operating Systems

Essential knowledge for anyone interested in IT support or repair.
You’ll learn:

How computers work
How to identify hardware components
How operating systems function
Basic troubleshooting techniques

Introduction to Cybersecurity

One of the hottest career fields in the world.
Topics include:

Cyber threats
Online safety
Protection tools
How hackers think
How to stay secure in a digital world

Introduction to Networking & Introduction to AI

This module introduces you to:

How networks connect devices
Internet fundamentals
Basic networking tools
Beginner-level Artificial Intelligence concepts
The role of AI in modern careers

These courses are recognised internationally — meaning your certificates can boost your CV not only locally, but also globally.

Eligibility Requirements

You can apply if you:

Live in Ekurhuleni (provide proof not older than 3 months)
Completed Grade 12
Are 18–35 years old and unemployed (preference given)
Do NOT have a formal IT qualification

This programme is specifically designed for beginners, so don’t worry if you’ve never studied IT before.

How to Apply

APPLY FOR THE CISCO NETWORKING ACADEMY IT PROGRAMME 2026 HERE

Before you Apply, Check the Edupstairs Youth Tools Hub below that can be helpful in your application

Edupstairs Advice – How to Stand Out After Completing This Programme

To maximise this opportunity:

Add all certificates to your CV

Create a “Digital Skills” section with:

CISCO Certificate of Completion (per course)
Software tools you used
Skills gained (e.g., cybersecurity basics, networking basics, digital literacy)

Use your CISCO account to access MORE free courses

CISCO offers dozens of beginner-to-intermediate courses that you can complete at your own pace.

Apply the skills in real life

Help friends troubleshoot devices.
Volunteer to assist at community centres.
Build small IT projects.
Practice daily.

Pair these skills with other opportunities

Browse Edupstairs categories such as:

Learnerships
Internships
Bursaries
Government Jobs
Youth Programmes

Your new IT skills make you a stronger candidate in almost every field.

Career Growth Path After Completing This Programme

Completing CISCO introductory courses opens doors to many digital career pathways, such as:

IT Support Technician
Help Desk Assistant
Junior Cybersecurity Analyst
Network Support Intern
Data Entry Technician
Office IT Administrator
Web Support Assistant
AI/Tech Assistant Roles
Network Technician (with further studies)

You can also progress into:

CISCO CCNA training
Google IT Support Certificates
CompTIA A+
Higher-level Cybersecurity training
College ICT qualifications

These skills are stepping stones that give you confidence, credibility, and employability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this programme really free?

Yes. All courses, support and certificates are completely free.

Can I use my phone to study?

Yes — all courses are mobile-friendly.

Do I need IT experience?

No. This programme is for beginners.

Will I receive a certificate?

Yes. CISCO issues internationally recognised Certificates of Completion.

What if I don’t have data or a device?

You can use any CoE Library with public-access computers and free WiFi.

Can people outside Ekurhuleni apply?

No. You must live in Ekurhuleni.

Is attendance required?

The programme is online, so you can complete it at your own pace.

Can I apply if I already have a tertiary IT qualification?

No. This programme is for those without formal IT qualifications.

What is the age limit?

18–35 (unemployed youth receive preference).

What happens after I apply?

You’ll receive communication via email or SMS about next steps.

CLOSING DATE: 15 DECEMBER 2025

You can also:

Disclaimers

Edupstairs is not responsible for the recruitment, selection or training process.
We only provide educational information to help youth access opportunities.
Always apply using the official link provided by the City of Ekurhuleni and CISCO.
Never pay anyone for access to free programmes — this is a common scam.

EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE