Digital Literacy Training and Entrepreneurship Skill Development Among Young Adults in South Africa: A Mixed-Methods Investigation

Digital literacy and entrepreneurship skills are crucial for young adults in South Africa's economic development. However, there is a gap in understanding how digital literacy training programmes impact these skills. A mixed-methods approach combining surveys (n=300) with focus groups (n=20), interviews, and observations was employed. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis for qualitative data and descriptive statistics for quantitative data. Digital literacy training programmes significantly enhanced participants' entrepreneurial skills by 45% (p<0.01). Themes emerged from the qualitative data included improved business planning and networking opportunities. The findings suggest that digital literacy training can be a potent tool for enhancing entrepreneurship skills among young adults in South Africa, particularly those with limited formal education. Policy makers should integrate digital literacy into existing entrepreneurship programmes to maximise skill development outcomes. Educational institutions must also incorporate these skills into curricula.