Last year, FNB launched a local coding programme called the App Academy, and by all accounts, it was a massive success.
So much so, that FNB is bringing it back for 2026, along with a new partner in the form of the University of Johannesburg’s Business School (JBS).
The partnership will see this iteration of the programme expanding access to university-backed digital and entrepreneurial education for the next generation of South African developers, as FNB terms it. The collaboration also aims to equip more than 50 000 young people with “future-ready skills”, recognised learning experiences, and stronger pathways into the digital economy.
As a reminder, the FNB App Academy is an open and free platform for participants across the African continent, offering accessible, high-quality digital education.
“The 2026 collaboration introduces an enhanced learning experience through a partnership with the Johannesburg Business School’s Centre for Entrepreneurship (JBSCE). Learners will gain access to a university-backed, accredited learning experience combining practical app development, entrepreneurship thinking, innovation leadership and future-focused digital skills development,” explained FNB in a release to Hypertext.
Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a certificate of completion endorsed by the Johannesburg Business School Centre for Entrepreneurship.
It is also worth pointing out that while the programme is not currently an NQF qualification, it offers a structured, credible and industry-aligned educational experience designed to strengthen employability, entrepreneurial thinking and participation in the digital economy.
“The curriculum has been co-developed by FNB and JBSCE to align with real-world market demands, entrepreneurial skills and mindset, innovation trends and emerging technologies. Participants will also benefit from mentorship opportunities, practical innovation challenges, industry-led insights and exposure to future-of-work thinking aimed at bridging the gap between education and economic participation,” FNB added.
“This partnership is about creating meaningful access to opportunity,” she said. “By bringing together industry expertise, academic excellence and practical innovation, we are building a platform that enables young people to develop relevant skills, gain recognised learning experiences and participate more meaningfully in the economy,” noted Janis Robson, Business Development head at FNB.
To apply for the 2026 FNB App Academy, head here.
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