by SAVIOUS KWINIKA
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – VODACOM’S flagship digital empowerment initiative, #CodeLikeAGirl (CLAG), has trained more than 10,000 girls across South Africa since its launch in 2017, equipping them with critical coding and digital literacy skills to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
What began with only 20 participants has grown into a nationwide programme spanning all nine provinces. Targeting girls aged 14 to 18, particularly from underprivileged backgrounds, the initiative provides access to on-site and virtual bootcamps.
These sessions introduce participants to programming languages including HTML, CSS, JavaScript and GitHub, while also offering mentorship and life skills development.
In 2024 alone, Vodacom trained a record 3,446 girls, with plans to reach 4,000 in 2025.
Many graduates have since progressed into Vodacom’s bursary and Early Careers programmes, with some securing permanent roles in the tech sector.
The initiative has also evolved into an accredited qualification, providing participants with recognised certification for long-term career opportunities.
“#CodeLikeAGirl is breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated space,” said Njabulo Mashigo, Vodacom South Africa’s HR Director.
“It is rewarding to see participants begin the course feeling intimidated by coding, yet finish empowered and excited about STEM careers.”
The programme’s impact is illustrated by alumni like Shreya Rupan, now a Vodacom data analyst, who credits the 2018 bootcamp with igniting her passion for coding and paving the way for her academic and professional success.
With women holding just 22% of STEM jobs in G20 countries (UNESCO, 2024), Vodacom says initiatives like CLAG are vital to closing gender gaps and shaping a more inclusive digital future.
– CAJ News