YES x Microsoft AI Skills Initiative 2026: How to Apply for Free Microsoft AI Certifications in South Africa

Apply for the YES x Microsoft AI Skills Initiative 2026 and get free Microsoft certification vouchers. Open to all South Africans. Limited to 50,000 vouchers.

South Africa’s digital economy is expanding fast. At the same time, many young people and working professionals are struggling to access affordable, globally recognised tech training.

The YES x Microsoft AI Skills Initiative has been launched to close that gap. This national programme gives South Africans free access to Microsoft learning pathways and certification exam vouchers. If you complete the required modules and pass the practice assessment, you qualify for a free Microsoft certification exam.

With only 50,000 vouchers available, early registration is strongly advised.

What Is the YES x Microsoft AI Skills Initiative?

The programme is a collaboration between the Youth Employment Service (YES) and Microsoft.

It provides:

• Free access to Microsoft Learn modules
• Self-paced online training
• Practice assessments
• A free Microsoft certification exam voucher (upon qualification)

The goal is simple: help South Africans build AI and cloud-related skills that are in demand across industries.

Who Can Apply?

The initiative is open to all South Africans.

It is particularly suitable for:

• Unemployed youth seeking recognised digital credentials
• Career changers entering the tech space
• Working professionals wanting AI literacy
• Graduates wanting to improve employability

You do not need coding experience.
You do not need a computer science degree.
You do not need prior Azure knowledge for beginner courses.

How the Programme Works (Step-by-Step)

The process is fully online and self-paced.

Step 1: Register

Visit the official YES AI Skills website and sign up. You will need a Microsoft account to access training.

Step 2: Complete Learning Modules

Choose your certification pathway and complete all required modules on Microsoft Learn.

Step 3: Pass the Practice Exam

Score 70% or higher on the practice assessment.

Step 4: Claim Your Free Voucher

Submit your voucher claim and receive your Microsoft certification exam voucher.

You can then book and write the official certification exam.

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The 8 Free Certification Pathways Available

Participants can choose from beginner and intermediate certifications.

1. AI Business Professional (Beginner)

• 6 modules
• ±4.5 hours
• No coding required
• Focuses on generative AI and Microsoft 365 Copilot

Ideal for business professionals.

2. Azure AI Fundamentals (Beginner)

• 14 modules
• ±11 hours
• Covers core AI concepts and Azure services

Perfect for those starting in AI.

3. Azure Fundamentals (Beginner)

• 12 modules
• Cloud basics
• No scripting required

Strong foundation for cloud careers.

4. Security, Compliance & Identity Fundamentals (Beginner)

• 15 modules
• ±8 hours
• Covers Microsoft cloud security basics

Suitable for entry-level IT security roles.

5. Azure Data Fundamentals (Beginner)

• 9 modules
• ±6 hours
• Covers data analytics and cloud data services

Ideal for aspiring data professionals.

6. Azure AI Engineer Associate (Intermediate)

• 40 modules
• ±38 hours
• Build AI-powered applications

Best for developers with some experience.

7. Azure Data Scientist Associate (Intermediate)

• 23 modules
• ±18 hours
• Focuses on machine learning using Azure

Requires Python and ML knowledge.

8. Azure Security Engineer Associate (Intermediate)

• 12 modules
• ±23 hours
• Covers cloud security operations

Designed for IT security professionals.

Why This Matters for South Africa

AI literacy is no longer optional. Employers now expect digital skills across industries including:

• Finance
• Healthcare
• Retail
• Government
• Telecommunications

Microsoft certifications are globally recognised. They prove competency using an internationally trusted standard.

For unemployed youth, this removes a major financial barrier.
For professionals, it strengthens career mobility.
For career changers, it opens new digital pathways.

Additional Support Programmes

YES also offers:

• Ikamva Digital – Additional digital support initiatives
• ElevateHer WomenInTech – Supporting women entering technology fields

These programmes provide community and structured guidance.

Important Things to Know Before Registering

• You must complete all modules.
• You must score at least 70% on the practice exam.
• Vouchers are limited to 50,000 total.
• Learning is self-paced and online.
• You need internet access and a Microsoft account.

If you experience technical issues, YES provides support via its online ticket system.

How to Apply for YES x Microsoft AI Skills Initiative 2026

Visit the official YES AI Skills website and register:

Website: yes-aiskills.co.za

From there, you can:

• Register your profile
• Select your certification pathway
• Start your modules
• Claim your voucher once eligible

Final Thoughts

The YES x Microsoft AI Skills Initiative is one of the most accessible digital training opportunities currently available in South Africa. It combines free access, flexible learning, and globally recognised certification.

With only 50,000 vouchers available, registering early gives you the best chance of securing your free Microsoft certification.

If you are serious about building AI and cloud skills in 2026, this is an opportunity worth taking.