Since its launch on 1 March 2018, the Ekurhuleni Regional Centre Community Engagement Project has become a catalyst for community empowerment and skills development in Unisa’s Gauteng Region. Fully funded by Unisa through the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, the project forms part of the institution’s broader commitment to community engagement, social innovation and sustainable development.

Led by Dr Mhlonipheni Msomi from the Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, the initiative focuses on transferring practical skills to unemployed youth, women and the elderly in surrounding communities through community-based workshops and training programmes.

The latest training workshop focused on basic computer literacy, introducing participants to essential Microsoft Office applications, including MS Word and MS Excel. The training aimed to equip community members with practical digital skills needed in today’s workplace and entrepreneurial environment. According to Msomi, many participants entered the programme with little or no prior exposure to computer applications. However, as the training progressed, participants gained confidence and were able to access and use a variety of functions in the applications.

"This initiative empowers community members with practical skills that can improve access to employment opportunities, entrepreneurship and personal development. It also creates an environment for social learning and knowledge transfer," says Msomi.

The project is implemented in collaboration with the School of Computing and the Unisa Women’s Forum, thereby strengthening interdisciplinary partnerships to advance community empowerment initiatives.

Beyond digital literacy, the project contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals, including high-quality education, zero hunger and poverty alleviation. It also aligns with Unisa’s niche areas through its focus on cocurricular activities and natural sciences. Looking ahead, the project team plans to introduce advanced computer training for participants who have successfully completed the basic course. Additional community workshops scheduled for the 2026 academic year will focus on vegetable gardening, food preparation, food preservation and sewing skills.

Msomi thanks the individuals who contributed to the success of the training programme, saying, "I would like to thank Abongile Sinono, our administrative officer, for ensuring the smooth coordination of the training. Appreciation also goes to facilitators from the School of Computing —  Ephraim Bogopa, Daphney Mokwana and Lindelani Nxumalo — for transferring these skills in an easy and understandable manner."

The Ekurhuleni Regional Service Centre Community Engagement Project continues to demonstrate how collaborative community-based initiatives can empower communities, promote lifelong learning, and contribute meaningfully to social and economic development in Gauteng. 

* By Thembeka Ntuli Mpapama, Manager: Communication and Marketing, Unisa Gauteng Region