​The Gauteng Department of e-Government, in collaboration with the University of Johannesburg (UJ), celebrated a significant milestone on 20 June 2022, by honoring 204 young graduates of the Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMME) Development and ICT Skills Program. This initiative, aimed at equipping the youth with essential skills for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), marks a pivotal step in bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth within the province. 
The graduation ceremony, held at UJ's Auckland Park Kingsway Campus, was a testament to the commitment of both the Gauteng Department of e-Government and UJ to empower young people through education and skills development. The SMME Development and ICT Skills Program is designed to provide participants with the necessary tools to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape, emphasizing the importance of SMMEs in driving economic development.
In his keynote address, Head of Department, Mr. Castro Mosina highlighted the significance of the program and its impact on the future of the graduates. 
"The ICT skills development program is a cornerstone of our efforts to equip the youth with 4IR skills. By investing in your education and training, we are not only preparing you for the jobs of tomorrow but also empowering you to be innovators and leaders in your communities. I hope wherever you go, you will be great ambassadors of government, appreciating the opportunity that you received to improve your lives," Mosina stated.
The program, which ran over a period of six months, covered a comprehensive curriculum that included digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and data analytics. These skills are crucial for the youth to navigate and excel in an increasingly digital world. 
The beneficiaries of the programme who were graduates expressed their gratitude for the opportunity and shared their experiences of personal and professional growth. One of them, Ms. Mechell Mavuso, spoke about the profound impact the program had on her life. "This program has been a game-changer for me. Not only have I gained valuable ICT skills, but I've also learned how to think like an entrepreneur. The knowledge and experience I've acquired will undoubtedly open many doors for me in the future. I feel more confident and prepared to take on new challenges and make a positive impact in my community," Mavuso said.
Another graduate - Mr. Kevin Chiloane shared “coming from a disadvantaged background, this program has opened doors I never thought possible. The skills I've learned will help me break the cycle of poverty and create a better future for myself and my family”, he said. 
The partnership between the Gauteng Department of e-Government and UJ underscores the importance of collaboration in addressing the skills gap and promoting economic development. By providing young people with the necessary skills and knowledge, the program aims to create a sustainable and inclusive digital economy that benefits all.