ORT South Africa

ORT South Africa is an accredited, award-winning non-profit organization, dedicated to empowering individuals and communities across South Africa. With a vision of "Educating for Life," ORT SA's mission is to make people employable through state-of-the-art training in mathematics, science, technology, and work readiness, while also creating employment opportunities through business skills training and mentorship.

Over its years of operation, ORT SA has successfully trained and empowered thousands of South Africans in critical areas such as business development, cutting-edge teacher training, skills development, work readiness programs, and basic computer literacy. Through leadership, innovation, and positive intent, ORT SA strives to create a society where individuals can become contributing members, driving both personal and economic growth.

ORT SA operates through several academies: Skills and Enterprise Development Academy, STEM Academy, IT Academy, and ORT JET — a division that supports businesses through a unique development programme.

Name of Organization ORT South Africa
Head Office Location Johannesburg, South Africa
Age range Elementary, Junior High, High School, Post-High School, Adult Education
Students 3390
Professionals 31

Skills & Enterprise Development Academy

ORT SA's Skills & Enterprise Development programs focus on equipping individuals with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge to enhance their employability and create sustainable livelihoods.

  • Learnerships: Structured learning programs combining theoretical knowledge with practical workplace experience, resulting in the acquisition of recognized accredited qualifications:
    • New Venture Creation: Programs designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs in developing and launching successful businesses, providing training, mentorship, and access to resources.
    • Workplace Essential Skills: Training programs focused on developing essential skills for success in the workplace, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
  • TheIsihlangu (Shield) ED Programme: This programme focuses on fostering entrepreneurship and economic development across Africa. It aims to empower individuals and small businesses by providing them with the necessary skills, resources, and support to launch and grow sustainable enterprises.

The Skills & Enterprise Development Academy has impacted upwards of 15,743 beneficiaries to date.

STEM Academy

ORT SA recognises the critical importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in driving innovation and economic growth. The STEM programs aim to inspire and equip learners with the skills to excel in these fields.

  • Let Kidz Code: Coding & Robotics: Engaging programs that introduce learners to the fundamentals of coding and robotics, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and computational thinking.
  • Youth Entrepreneurs Programme: This programme is focused on empowering young minds to become future entrepreneurs by teaching them the foundation of business/entrepreneurial skills.
  • Second Chance Post-Matric Mathematics & Science: Support programs for students pursuing further studies in mathematics and science, providing additional resources and guidance.
  •  Maths & Digital Literacy: Programs designed to improve mathematical and digital literacy skills for teachers

IT Academy

ORT SA's IT Academy provides comprehensive training in a range of IT skills, preparing individuals for careers in the rapidly growing technology sector.

  • Digital Skills: Advanced digital skills training in areas such as CISCO IOT, Cyber Security, and other relevant technologies.
  • Big Data: Specialized training in Big Data technologies, including Cloud computing, Python programming, Microsoft Azure, Power BI, and Excel for data analysis.

The STEM & IT academies have impacted upwards of 129,952 students in STEM to date.

ORT Jet

ORT Jet’s program focused on empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs, providing them with the tools and support they need to succeed.

  • Training: Business skills training, covering areas such as marketing, finance, and management.
  • Networking: Opportunities to connect with other entrepreneurs and industry professionals.
  • Mentorship: Guidance and support from experienced business mentors.

In the 20 years since ORT JET was established to assist Jewish businesses, it has supported over 2,500 businesses.