Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the fastest-growing fields in the world, and South Africa is catching up fast. From finance and education to agriculture and logistics, companies are looking for people who understand AI, data, and digital tools. For South African jobseekers, especially those in Gauteng (Johannesburg, Pretoria and surrounding areas), now is the perfect time to learn AI skills and prepare for a future-proof career.
This guide breaks down AI training programs available in Gauteng and beyond, including online options, and shows you how to start your AI journey - even if you have no tech background.
Why Learn AI?
Here are 5 reasons why more South Africans are investing in AI training:
1. High-paying jobs in South Africa and overseas
2. Remote work opportunities with global companies
3. Skills shortage - Many local companies are looking for AI, data science, and machine learning talent
4. Government support for digital skills development
5. No degree required - Many courses are open to anyone with basic computer knowledge
Top AI Training Programs in Gauteng
If you live in or near Johannesburg or Pretoria, here are some of the best places to study AI:
1. ExploreAI Academy (Johannesburg)
What they offer: Full-time and part-time programs in AI, data science, and data engineering.
Why it’s great:
Focus on African data problems
Real-world projects
Job placement support
Website: explore.ai
2. University of Pretoria - Data Science and AI Courses
Short courses in machine learning, Python programming, and AI fundamentals. Ideal for professionals who want to study part-time or upskill. Offers both in-person and online formats.
3. University of Johannesburg - Centre for Data Science and AI
Offers postgraduate diplomas and online certificates. Great for graduates or working professionals looking for formal education in AI. Collaborates with industry partners on real-world research.
4. Wits University - Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct (Braamfontein)
Community hub for tech innovation, AI, and entrepreneurship. Hosts AI bootcamps, coding courses, and innovation labs. Ideal for youth and early-stage tech learners.
Online AI Training Available Nationwide: Even if you live outside Gauteng - or prefer learning at home - there are excellent online options for South Africans:
5. Zindi Africa (Online)
African-based platform for data science competitions. Learn by doing real projects and collaborating with other learners. Free to join and open to all skill levels.
6. Coursera (Free & Paid Options)
Offers top-rated AI and machine learning courses from:
Stanford University
IBM
Financial aid available for South Africans.
7. Microsoft AI Skills Initiative (Online)
Free learning paths to help people gain AI skills.
Beginner to advanced levels available.
Includes certificates and practical labs.
8. Udemy (Online)
Budget-friendly AI courses on topics like:
Python for AI
ChatGPT and Generative AI
Machine Learning Basics
Often includes lifetime access and downloadable content.
9. Africa Data School (Online, Kenya-based but open to SA)
Offers bootcamps in data analytics, Python, and machine learning.
Great community for African learners and affordable pricing.
How to Choose the Right AI Training Program
Here are 4 things to consider before picking the right AI course in South Africa:
1. Your current skill level - Are you a beginner or do you have coding experience?
2. Your learning style - Prefer in-person learning, or is online better for you?
3. Cost and funding - Many platforms offer scholarships or free trials.
4. Career goals - Do you want to become a data analyst, machine learning engineer, or just understand the basics of AI?
Free or Low-Cost AI Resources for South Africans
You don’t need to spend a lot to get started. These platforms offer free access or affordable training:
Kaggle.com - Free tutorials and AI projects
Google’s AI Hub - Beginner AI courses
LinkedIn Learning - Free with some SA library cards
YouTube Channels - Search “Machine Learning South Africa” or “AI for beginners Python”
Tips for South African Jobseekers Entering AI
- Start small - You don’t need to become an expert overnight.
- Focus on one skill at a time - Begin with Python or Excel, then move to machine learning.
- Practice on real problems - Use local datasets or Zindi challenges.
- Join communities - Network with others on LinkedIn or in WhatsApp tech groups.
-Keep your portfolio updated - Show off your projects on GitHub or your CV.
AI is the Future, and You Can Be Part of It
AI is transforming the job market in South Africa and around the world. With free and affordable training programs in Gauteng and online, any South African can learn AI and create new career opportunities. Whether you're unemployed, in a traditional role, or just curious about technology - this is your time to learn, grow, and build a future-ready career.
Questions after the interview:
At the end of an interview there is usually an opportunity where you can ask any questions you might have. This is a great opportunity to show the interviewer that you are interested in the position as well as the company. It is a good idea to prepare a few questions before the interview – this can be done while you are doing research on the company.
Your questions should show the interviewer that you are a good candidate for the position. Try and avoid questions that are based on your personal needs and preferences, for instance:
- How much leave will I get in a year?
- Will I be considered for promotion in my first year?
- When will I get an increase?
- What time can I leave in the afternoon?
These questions are inappropriate at this stage and will probably raise concerns on the side of the interviewer. Should you be the successful candidate then all these questions will be answered in your letter of appointment so don’t waste this opportunity by asking these basic questions.
If the position is an entry level job or very junior then you are welcome to ask questions in line with the position, for instance:
- Why did the previous person leave the position?
- What would the successful person be tasked to do in a typical day?
- How does this position fit into the department and / or company?
- Could you explain the company structure to me?
- Is there any further education assistance or support?
If the position is more senior then you can prepare question around the following themes:
- current issues that will face the successful candidate;
- inter-personal challenges in the department;
- any process, technology or people challenges that needs to be attended to urgently;
- key result areas that need urgent attention in the first few months;
The above information should get you started. Prepare a few questions so that you can show your worth. Good luck with your interview!
