The Gauteng Department of e-Government is set to host the second edition of its Youth Tech Expo (YTE) Hackathon Series, giving young people across the province an opportunity to develop digital skills, showcase innovative ideas and gain exposure to the growing digital economy.
The programme follows the successful inaugural hackathon held in June this year and will expand to all five regions of Gauteng. The first regional hackathon will take place on 15 and 16 October 2026 at Don Matema Hall in Eldorado Park, Johannesburg.
The hackathon series is designed to empower young innovators by providing a platform to collaborate, solve real-world challenges using technology and explore opportunities in digital entrepreneurship and emerging technologies.
Participants will work together to develop technology-driven solutions while gaining practical experience that could help prepare them for careers in the digital sector.
At the conclusion of each regional event, 10 participants will be selected to represent their region at the Grand Finale, scheduled for November 2026. The finalists will compete against the province’s top young innovators and present their technology solutions.
The Department says the initiative forms part of its efforts to equip young people with future-focused digital skills while encouraging innovation that can contribute to economic growth and job creation in Gauteng.
To qualify, applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35, be permanent residents of Gauteng and register in the region where they live. Applicants must also possess a valid South African identity document and have a Matric Certificate (Grade 12), an NQF Level 4 qualification or an equivalent qualification.
Young people interested in participating can apply through the Gauteng Department of e-Government’s official social media platforms, where the application link is available, or submit their applications directly online at: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/nn3TTyBJUx.
The Department has encouraged eligible young people with an interest in technology and innovation to apply and take advantage of the opportunity to build digital skills, network with like-minded innovators and contribute solutions to challenges affecting communities across Gauteng.
