South African technology training firm NetCampus has trained nearly 6,000 government leaders in artificial intelligence through Microsoft's Elevate program in an effort to build practical AI capacity in the public sector.
The initiative involves leaders and decision makers from the Gauteng, Western Cape and Eastern Cape provincial governments, the Department of Higher Education, technical and vocational education and training colleges, the South African Revenue Service, the University of Venda and the National School of Government. Learning is delivered through virtual sessions, in-person interactions and digital content hosted on the learning management system.
Tiara Pathon, AI skills director at Microsoft South Africa, said the program is designed to equip leaders with practical, responsible AI skills to strengthen public services and create inclusive workforce pathways. “AI is changing the way people learn, work, and serve their communities,” Pathon said. “Through Microsoft Elevate, we are expanding the scope of opportunities.”
Netcampus Group CEO Tebogo Makgatho said organizations that adopt AI as a component of strategy can gain a competitive edge while contributing to sustainable growth. “Understanding and leveraging AI is critical to innovation, efficiency, and long-term success in today’s digital economy,” he said.
NetCampus said it will provide a new wave of AI training from April to June 2026, expanding the program beyond government leadership groups to include non-profit organizations and youth development initiatives. Participants will learn about AI tools, real-world applications, and emerging career paths.
The program was also showcased at South Africa's two largest ICT conferences, the Africa Tech Festival and the GovTech Conference, to extend its reach across the continent.