cdsa mission

Our Strategic Partners

Organizations united in transforming Africa's digital landscape

AI for Good Logo

AI for Good

UN Initiative • Strategic Partner

Aligning with CDSA's Vision

AI for Good is the premier United Nations platform advancing artificial intelligence for the Sustainable Development Goals. Organized by ITU in collaboration with over 40 UN agencies, this partnership gives CDSA students direct access to global AI expertise, best practices, and a network of innovators committed to using AI as a force for social good—perfectly aligned with our mission to prepare South African youth for the AI-driven future.

What This Means for CDSA Students

✓ Access to global AI innovation network and knowledge resources
✓ Curriculum aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals
✓ Opportunities to engage with international AI community
✓ Exposure to cutting-edge AI solutions addressing global challenges
✓ Platform for showcasing South African AI talent and innovation
Partnership Focus

AI for Social Impact & SDGs

Collaboration Area

Skills Development & Global Network

Established

2025

Partner Type

ITU + 40 UN Agencies

STEM Olympiad Logo

STEM Olympiad

Competition Platform • Member Partner

Fostering Competitive Excellence

STEM Olympiad provides an international competition platform that challenges students in grades 1-12 across mathematics, science, and technology. This partnership enables CDSA students to benchmark their skills against global standards, participate in prestigious competitions, and develop the competitive edge needed for academic excellence and career success.

What This Means for CDSA Students

✓ Access to international STEM competitions and recognition
✓ Global benchmarking of mathematical and scientific skills
✓ Development of problem-solving and analytical thinking
✓ Competitive advantage on university applications
✓ Connection to global community of STEM enthusiasts
Partnership Focus

STEM Competitions & Excellence

Collaboration Area

Student Competitions & Recognition

Established

2025

Partner Type

International Competition Platform

IBM Cognitive Class Logo

IBM Cognitive Class

Technology Partner • Content Provider

Powering World-Class AI & Data Science Education

IBM Cognitive Class provides CDSA with cutting-edge AI, Data Science, and Cloud Computing curriculum. This partnership ensures our students learn from industry-leading content, earn globally recognized IBM certifications, and develop skills that meet real-world enterprise standards—preparing them for careers at leading technology companies.

What This Means for CDSA Students

✓ Access to IBM's enterprise-grade AI and data science curriculum
✓ Globally recognized IBM digital badges and certifications
✓ Industry-relevant skills aligned with market demands
✓ Hands-on labs and practical project experience
✓ Career pathways to IBM and tech industry opportunities
Partnership Focus

AI, Data Science & Cloud Computing

Collaboration Area

Curriculum & Certification

Established

2024

Partner Type

Global Technology Leader

Microsoft Logo

Microsoft

Technology Partner • Platform Provider

Building on Azure & Microsoft Learn

Microsoft's partnership provides CDSA with access to Azure cloud infrastructure, Microsoft Learn resources, and Skills Build programs. Students gain hands-on experience with cloud computing, AI services, and enterprise development tools—skills that are foundational for modern software development and IT careers.

What This Means for CDSA Students

✓ Access to Azure cloud services and development tools
✓ Microsoft certifications and digital credentials
✓ Enterprise-grade development environment
✓ Cloud computing and AI services training
✓ Pathways to Microsoft technology careers
Partnership Focus

Cloud Computing & Enterprise Tools

Collaboration Area

Platform Access & Skills Build

Established

2024

Partner Type

Global Technology Leader

IBM SkillsBuild Logo

IBM SkillsBuild

Skills Development Partner • Education Platform

Democratizing Tech Education at Scale

IBM SkillsBuild is IBM's flagship education program providing free, high-quality technology learning to underserved communities worldwide. Through this partnership, CDSA students gain access to IBM's comprehensive curriculum spanning cybersecurity, AI, cloud computing, and professional skills—all designed to prepare learners for in-demand technology careers. This partnership embodies CDSA's commitment to making world-class education accessible to all South African youth.

What This Means for CDSA Students

✓ Free access to IBM's professional skills development platform
✓ Industry-recognized IBM digital badges and credentials
✓ Comprehensive courses in cybersecurity, AI, and cloud technologies
✓ Career readiness training and professional development resources
✓ Connection to IBM's global talent network and career opportunities
✓ Mentorship opportunities from IBM professionals
Partnership Focus

Technology Skills & Career Readiness

Collaboration Area

Free Education Platform & Credentials

Established

2024

Partner Type

Global CSR Initiative (IBM)

Our Partnership Philosophy

CDSA doesn't just partner with organizations—we build strategic alliances with global leaders who share our commitment to youth empowerment and digital inclusion. Every partnership is carefully selected to ensure:

✓ Alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals
✓ Direct value delivery to South African youth
✓ Global recognition of skills and certifications
✓ Access to employment and career pathways
✓ Long-term commitment to African development

Join Us in Transforming Africa's Digital Future

Whether you're in technology, education, government, or youth development—let's co-create solutions that drive sustainable impact across Africa.