NPI establishes free boot camp for graduates, with 80 job opportunities - tackling high graduate unemployment with workplace readiness

Boot camp tackles high graduate unemployment with workplace readiness A fresh new opportunity for tertiary graduates to prepare themselves for the world of work has been launched – the inaugural ACCESS70 Workplace Launchpad Boot Camp – taking place in Johannesburg from 19-26 June 2026, at no cost to the attendees. ACCESS70 was established under the visionary leadership of Israel Noko, founder and CEO of NPI Governance Solutions, a niche B-BBEE & Compliance advisory firm, to help create sustainable employment for young South Africans. “This has been a long-term vision of mine,” he explains. “The number of graduates leaving university and remaining unemployed is increasing. It’s currently at over 12% which amounts to more than 24,000 young people who leave university with a degree each year but cannot find work. Often the issue is not that positions are not available, but that graduates do not have access to the opportunities. In the gig economy, ACCESS70 is designed to bridge the gap between higher education and employment.” He adds that the fact that the boot camp is free of charge ensures that no graduate is excluded because of financial constraints. A Programme Designed for Workplace Success The week-long boot camp programme has been carefully curated and structured in collaboration with graduates, corporate partners and industry leaders to ensure the best outcomes for the time invested in the week’s activities. The tangible outputs revolve around what success in the workplace looks like and sustainable access to networks and entry level opportunities. ACCESS70 focuses on sectors where South Africa faces skills shortage, which include digital and information technology, financial services, marketing and sales, supply chain and logistics and engineering. Building Confidence and Opportunity Noko notes that an important part of the programme is building confidence and a positive attitude. “Losing hope can be a consequence of prolonged unemployment but attitude remains one of the most important factors in determining how far you will go. Employers look beyond academic achievements for graduates who are adaptable, resilient, eager to learn and committed to contributing positively in the workplace, making this aspect a vital part of the training.” Practical Skills and Employer Engagement Through workplace simulations, interactive learning experiences, mentoring, networking opportunities and direct employer engagement, ACCESS70 delegates are given insight into workplace expectations and are guided in building skills needed to thrive in the job market. Training covers professional communication, teamwork, problem-solving, personal branding, interview preparation and workplace etiquette. Participants will also have exposure to industry leaders and potential employers to expand their professional networks and improve their employability. Support Beyond the Boot Camp The programme extends beyond the week-long training. Noko says, “ACCESS70 doesn’t end with the boot camp. The programme includes employer matching and placement support after training as well as ongoing career monitoring that’s aimed at sustained employment rather than just job placement. We’re in this to make a difference – to the unemployment crisis and to young lives.” Who Should Apply? Noko says that delegate selection is done according to stringent criteria to ensure success for the young job seekers. “We’re looking for graduates who are ready to give the programme 110%, for creatives who can turn ideas into useful solutions, for future leaders who are serious and willing to be stretched and for those with discipline and an appetite for opportunity.” The invitation is open to graduates between 18 and 35 years who believe they have what it takes to grow beyond ACCESS70. Applications for the first ACCESS70 Workplace Launchpad Boot Camp can be found on their website at https://www.access70.co.za.