Press Release : DRF Partners with Digital Skills Africa

18 February 2026: To empower communities with career possibilities Digital Rights Frontlines (DRF) has entered a strategic partnership with Digital Skills Africa that will support the newly launched DRF Academy. DRF’s flagship skills development and employment pathway initiative.

Through this collaboration, Digital Skills Africa will serve as a support center partner. Contributing to certification pathways, technical guidance, and ecosystem linkages that will strengthen the DRF Academy’s training programs and student mentorship models.

"We are moving past the era of digital consumption and entering the era of digital contribution. At Digital Skills Africa, our vision is to ensure that South Sudan’s youth are not just users of technology, but the architects of it," said Jezeiyn Naidoo, Head of Operations & Partnerships, Digital Skills Africa.

"By providing the technical backbone for the DRF Academy, we are institutionalizing excellence and ensuring that 'Made in South Sudan' becomes a global benchmark for technical talent. This isn't just a partnership; it’s a declaration of digital independence,"

he added.

Grounded in a shared commitment to digital inclusion and youth empowerment, the partnership prioritizes underserved communities and aspiring technology professionals seeking recognized credentials and sustainable career growth.

"This partnership with Digital Skills Africa represents a decisive step forward in our mission to unlock South Sudan’s digital potential. Through the DRF Academy, our flagship skills and employment initiative, we are opening doors to new opportunities that will equip young people and lay the foundation for a thriving digital economy," said Nelson Kwaje, Chairperson Digital Rights Frontlines.

"Building clear, credible pathways to opportunity for the community remains central to our commitment. With the right infrastructure, and sustained support, South Sudan can play a leading role in digital transformation,” he added.

This partnership marks a significant step toward expanding opportunity that will open new doors for learners across South Sudan. Enabling access to structured, future-ready skills programs that enhance employability and stimulate innovation.

About Digital Rights Frontlines

Digital Rights Frontlines is a South Sudan-based civic-tech and digital rights organisation dedicated to strengthening online safety, advancing digital literacy, and protecting human rights in the digital age. We are actively engaged in research, advocacy, capacity building, and incident response to ensure that citizens, journalists, civil society organizations, and marginalized groups can participate safely and meaningfully in digital spaces. Our work contributes to building an open, inclusive, and rights-centred digital ecosystem in South Sudan and the wider region.

Learn more about DRF at https://www.digitalrights.ngo/ 

About DRF Academy

DRF Academy is an initiative dedicated to building human capital for the future of work in South Sudan. Delivering multi-pathway, future-oriented skills development by integrating digital capability and adaptive learning. DRF Academy’s mission is to empower citizens and institutions with globally recognized, future-oriented skills, through certified training, applied learning, and workforce-aligned programs. Where learners are equipped not only for today’s careers, but also for the opportunities of tomorrow.

Learn more about DRF Academy at https://www.drf.academy/  

About Digital Skills Africa

Digital Skills Africa is a non-profit company (NPC) established to reignite hope and address socio economic transformation through digital empowerment. With a purpose is to educate students and unemployed youth members with relevant technical skills, by providing them access to technical certifications at no cost. Partnering with disadvantaged schools and seeking donations/funding for the school to get digital devices. In addition to this, they also have a partnership with service providers to bring in internet to the schools at no additional cost.

More information about Digital Skills Africa can be found at https://digitalskillsafrica.org/