Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping the future of jobs, education, and innovation. But for many South Africans, especially those in under-resourced areas, the idea of learning AI might seem out of reach.
The good news? AI education is becoming more accessible than ever before, thanks to free online courses, mobile-friendly platforms, and local training programs.
This guide explains how AI education can be made accessible to all South Africans and why it’s important for jobseekers, students, and professionals to start learning today.
What is AI? (And Why Should You Care?)
AI stands for Artificial Intelligence - technology that allows computers to think, learn, and make decisions like humans.
AI is used in:
Google searches
Banking apps
Traffic systems in Gauteng
Online shopping platforms
Healthcare diagnostics
Understanding AI is not just for scientists. It’s for anyone who wants to stay relevant, improve their job chances, or build their own tech solutions.
The Barriers to AI Education in South Africa
Despite growing interest, many South Africans face challenges in accessing AI education. These include:
Cost of data and devices
Lack of awareness of free resources
Limited access to formal education or internet
Fear of technology or coding
Belief that AI is “only for techies”
But the truth is, AI can be learned by anyone, step by step, starting with basic digital skills.
How We Can Make AI Education Accessible
Here’s how AI education can become more inclusive for all South Africans:
1. Free and Low-Cost Learning Platforms
Zindi Africa - Africa-focused data science and AI competitions.
Coursera & edX - Free versions of world-class AI courses.
Kaggle - Offers beginner-friendly AI lessons and projects.
YouTube - Free video tutorials on AI, Python, and data science.
2. Mobile-Friendly Learning
Many platforms now work well on smartphones.
Apps like Coursera, YouTube, and SoloLearn offer AI content without a laptop.
3. Local Training Programs
ExploreAI Academy (Johannesburg): Affordable data science and AI training.
Youth Employment Service (YES): Supports digital skills for young South Africans.
Digital Youth ICT Academy: Offers AI bootcamps for township youth.
4. Community Hubs and Libraries
Digital hubs like Tshimologong Precinct offer access to internet and mentorship.
Public libraries in Gauteng and Cape Town provide free Wi-Fi and digital learning zones.
5. Government and NGO Support
The South African government is promoting AI literacy through:
The National Artificial Intelligence Institute
Partnerships with global tech companies
NGOs like Code for Change and Africa Teen Geeks are teaching AI in schools.
Why Jobseekers Should Learn AI Now
AI is not just the future - it’s already here. Companies are looking for people who can:
Understand and work with data
Automate repetitive tasks
Improve customer experience with smart solutions
No matter your current role, you can add AI to your CV and stand out. Whether you're in:
Retail - Learn how AI predicts sales
Admin - Use AI tools for faster data entry
Marketing - Use AI to analyse trends
Teaching - Explore AI-powered learning apps
Easy Steps to Start Learning AI Today
You don’t need a fancy computer or math degree. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Learn Basic Digital Skills
Get comfortable with email, Excel, Google Docs.
Free platforms: Google Digital Garage, Alison, GCFGlobal.
Step 2: Understand What AI Is
Watch “AI for Beginners” videos on YouTube.
Read short articles about AI in everyday life.
Step 3: Learn Python Programming
Python is the most used language in AI.
Try SoloLearn or W3Schools to start.
Step 4: Take an Intro to AI Course
Start with “Elements of AI” - free and beginner-friendly.
Try Google’s AI for Everyone on Coursera (free with financial aid).
Step 5: Join a Community
Follow #AIinAfrica or #MachineLearningSA on LinkedIn.
Join WhatsApp or Telegram groups focused on tech careers in SA.
Attend free tech meetups, webinars, or Zindi challenges.
AI is for All, Including You
AI education must be accessible - not just to the rich, but to every South African, in every province, town, and township. With free resources, mobile tools, and local support, anyone can start their journey into AI and digital skills.
Whether you're unemployed, underemployed, or just curious - now is your time to learn, grow, and prepare for the future. You don’t need permission to start. You just need the will to learn.
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!
