Konica Minolta and GWF: teaching tech today for a brighter tomorrow

Office equipment and technology solutions provider Konica Minolta South Africa is passionate about helping unlock the possibilities of a digital world. To achieve this, it has partnered with Good Work Foundation (GWF) to bridge the digital divide and ignite the brilliance and creativity of youth in rural communities in Mpumalanga and the Free State.

The relationship between Konica Minolta South Africa and GWF began more than a decade ago – the tech services provider’s involvement in the GWF cause was motivated by a desire to help young people in rural areas, particularly around the Kruger National Park, participate in the ecology and economy of their surroundings.

From initially working on a project setting up a mobile library in 2012, the collaboration between GWF and Konica Minolta South Africa has expanded to include initiatives focused on environmental conservation, education and digital literacy.

“Konica Minolta has worked with GWF on programmes such as its Conservation Academy, which offers young people the opportunity to engage in conservation efforts while also gaining practical workplace skills,” says Laetitia Coetzer, chief human resources and development officer at Konica Minolta South Africa. “The partnership has since grown to include the IT Academy, helping youth develop IT skills that make them attractive candidates for employment.”

In the battle to combat South Africa’s 45.5% youth unemployment rate, access to computers, the internet and digital learning programmes is a weapon in bridging the ever-widening skills gap between urban and rural areas. 

The partnership between Konica Minolta South Africa and GWF helps ignite digital learning in communities near GWF’s campuses, empowering the youth with the tools they need to succeed in the digital age. It also contributes to the rural digital revolution that will one day create a generation of tech-savvy leaders who will shape the future of South Africa.

“The legacy we hope to leave through our partnership with GWF is one of improved digital literacy and more educational opportunities for young people,” says Coetzer. 

“By expanding digital education to include more youth, children and schools, we’re levelling the playing field and ensuring opportunities aren’t limited by geography – you will be able to compete no matter where you come from, whether it's the big city or a small village.”