Here are some company-specific places to get free or cheap certifications that can help future-proof your career and a list of jobs in demand in the country
Well-Known Places To Get Certifications
Alison offers over 5000 free online courses across nine distinct categories. Courses on Alison are accredited by CPD (Continuing Professional Development) UK. The types of courses across the categories include Certificate Courses, and Diploma Courses.
They break down complex topics to their key practical components. This way, you gain usable skills in a few hours (instead of weeks or months). The courses are provided at no cost to you, and you can now earn certificates.
freeCodeCamp is a community of people from all around the world who are learning to code together. They are a 501(c)(3) public charity. You will learn to code by building dozens of projects, step-by-step, right in your browser, code editor, or mobile app.
This course is an introduction to modern web development with JavaScript. The main focus is on single-page applications implemented with React. These applications are supported with RESTful and GraphQL web services implemented with Node.js. The course also has parts on TypeScript, React Native, and Continuous integration.
Google offers several online certificates in high-demand fields like IT Support, Data Analytics, Project Management, and UX Design. These courses are self-paced and taught by Google employees. Upon completion, you get a certificate that can be shared on your LinkedIn profile. The courses are free to audit, with an optional paid certificate.
Microsoft offers a wide range of free online courses. These learning paths help you build skills in Microsoft technologies like Azure, Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, and more. You can earn role-based certifications like Azure Fundamentals, Microsoft 365 Fundamentals, and Dynamics 365 Fundamentals. The courses are self-paced and interactive.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) offers free digital training to help you build practical skills in cloud computing. You can earn AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certifications. The courses include self-paced digital training, virtual instructor-led training, and self-service labs.
IBM provides free online courses and learning paths in areas like AI, blockchain, cloud, data science, and more. You can earn IBM-branded digital badges upon completion of each course. The courses are self-paced and interactive.
Cisco offers free online courses and hands-on labs to help you build skills in networking, cybersecurity, IoT, and more. You can earn Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. The courses are self-paced and include interactive learning materials.
CompTIA A+ is a vendor-neutral certification that validates the skills needed for entry-level IT support roles. CompTIA offers free online training resources like practice tests, study guides, and exam objectives to help you prepare. The certification exam costs $226.
Jobs in Demand in South Africa (2024)
(links lead to free/low cost certifications curated by AK0350)
Marketing
Digital Marketing Manager
SEO Manager
Marketing Manager
Video Content Creator
Engineering
Sound Engineer
Civil Engineer (Civil 3D, Topography, Project Specifications)
Electrical Studies
Information Technology
e-Commerce Specialist
Software Developer
Data Scientis
Web Developer
IT Assistant (Entry Level)
Network Administrator
Healthcare
Nurse (Intensive Care, Midwife, Nurse Practitioner)
Senior Health Services Manager
Public Health Manager
Advanced Nursing Practitioner
Clinical Midwife Manager
Medical Technologist (Radiation Therapist, Radiographer, Gastro-Intestinal Technologist, Vascular Technologist)
Industrial Pharmacist
Health and Safety Officer
Financial Services
Accountant (Financial Accountant, Credit Controller, Audit Manager, Cost Engineer)
Actuary
Trainee Accountant (CIMA)
Junior Accountant
Financial Advisor
Investment & Finance Graduate
Education, Training, and Development Practices (ETDP) SETA
ECD Practitioner
Foundation Phase Teacher
Intermediate & Senior Phase Teacher
TVET College Lecturer
University Lecturer
School Principal
Head of Department (HoD)
Special Needs Teacher
Other In-Demand Jobs
Business Analyst
Sales Representative
Project Manager
Construction Manager
Mechanical Assembler
Alsison.com courses are CPD Accredited, which means the learning activity has reached the required Continuing Professional Development standards and benchmarks. The learning value has been scrutinised to make sure integrity and quality.
These online certifications will help show you’re proficient in a relevant and/or specific skill. They are a great addition to your resume.
Sources of data:
https://www.oakfieldscollege.co.za/blog/top-careers-in-demand-in-south-africa-a-guide-for-2024
https://www.nexford.edu/insights/top-10-in-demand-careers-in-south-africa