Kickstart Your Tech Career: Free Coding Lessons from FNB App Academy

Company: First National Bank (FNB)
Industry: Information Technology / Banking
Job Category: Coding Programme / Learnership
Location: Online (South Africa & other African regions)
Contract Type: Free Online Programme (Non-remunerative)
Remuneration: Free Coding Training
EE position: Open to All Applicants
Closing Date: 22 April 2025

The demand for skilled tech professionals continues to grow, and First National Bank (FNB) is addressing this gap with the return of its FNB App Academy 2025 – a free online coding programme that offers aspiring developers the opportunity to gain relevant, job-ready digital skills. This initiative by one of South Africa’s leading financial institutions is designed to uplift youth through coding education, and applications are officially open.

Since its launch, the App Academy has empowered over 17,000 learners across South Africa and other countries, equipping them with valuable programming knowledge and preparing them for the real-world demands of the technology and software development sectors.

This 9-week programme is flexible, accessible, and interactive — perfect for individuals with a passion for web development, React applications, and digital innovation. With classes held twice weekly, it is structured to accommodate learners with varying schedules, enabling seamless participation.

The FNB App Academy 2025 is an immersive online learning journey aimed at helping individuals learn how to code, design, and build real applications using the latest in-demand tools and frameworks. Through a structured curriculum that covers beginner to advanced levels, students will gain hands-on experience with:

• JavaScript programming fundamentals
• Frontend development using React
• Software tools like GitHub, Firebase, and Tailwind CSS
• Core software design methodologies including UX Design and Design Thinking
• Practical projects like building a task tracking application
• Exposure to business development, marketing strategies, and AI in app development

The programme not only teaches coding but introduces learners to the broader world of digital entrepreneurship, ensuring they understand how to bring a tech product to market.

This opportunity is ideal for:

• Young people passionate about technology, coding, and software engineering
• Beginners with no prior coding experience who want to explore the tech space
• Aspiring web and mobile app developers looking to upskill
• Students seeking a free learnership-style opportunity that delivers valuable career-readiness skills
• Entrepreneurs interested in developing and launching their own digital apps or solutions
• Anyone with a basic computer or smartphone and a stable internet connection

There are no formal qualifications required to apply, making this one of the most inclusive digital upskilling programmes currently available.

Participants will be expected to:

• Attend two online classes per week
• Complete weekly assignments and practical coding exercises
• Build and test real applications in a collaborative virtual environment
• Participate in peer reviews and code collaboration using GitHub
• Engage in weekly feedback sessions to track progress and address challenges
• Complete final projects to demonstrate acquired skills and readiness for further career development or employment

Throughout the programme, learners will receive guidance and mentoring from industry experts and professional developers.

The App Academy has been carefully designed to cultivate a wide range of technical and soft skills, including:

Technical Skills:

• JavaScript Programming
• React.js Development
• GitHub Version Control
• Tailwind CSS UI Styling
• Firebase Integration
• Backend Development
• Data Input & Management
• Using APIs & Processing JSON
• Mobile App Strategies
• Working with Hardware APIs

Design & Business Skills:

• UX/UI Design Principles
• Design Thinking Methodologies
• App Monetisation and Business Funding
• Marketing and Branding for Digital Products
• Entrepreneurial Mindset

Soft Skills:

• Collaboration in tech teams
• Problem-solving using code
• Adaptability and learning agility
• Confidence in applying tech knowledge
• Effective online communication

Beginner Level:

• Introduction to JavaScript and Programming Logic
• Basics of React and App Development
• GitHub and Version Control
• Fundamentals of UX Design
• Overview of Design Thinking
• Introduction to AI in App Development
• Basics of Business Development

Intermediate Level:

• Advanced React Basics (Dynamic Data, Inputs, Styling)
• Creation of TaskMate – A Task Tracking Application
• Layouts and Screen Transitions
• Accessing Hardware APIs
• Data Input Processing and Analysis
• App Strategy and Deployment Fundamentals

Advanced Level:

• Advanced React Features (React Router, Navigation)
• Tailwind CSS for UI Creation
• Firebase for Backend and Authentication
• API Usage and JSON Data Processing
• Backend Development Essentials
• Marketing Your App and Finding Business Funding

Applying is simple and completely online. Interested individuals can follow these steps:

• Visit the official FNB App Academy 2025 Application Portal
• Complete the application form with accurate personal details
• Submit a brief motivation on why you want to join the academy
• Ensure you have access to a computer/smartphone and stable internet connection

Once submitted, shortlisted applicants will be contacted via email for next steps.

Important: Applications close on 22 April 2025. Early application is strongly encouraged as spaces are limited.

• 100% Free and Online
• No previous experience required
• Structured learning path with live instruction
• Real-world projects to build your portfolio
• Supportive online community of learners
• Career readiness and entrepreneurship support
• Opens doors to tech jobs and internships

The FNB App Academy continues to transform lives by providing access to top-tier digital education for free. Whether you’re starting your tech journey or looking to build something meaningful, this programme offers a golden opportunity to gain tech skills, build projects, and join South Africa’s digital future.

Apply Learn to Code for Free with FNB App Academy