Digital Skills Initiative Applicant Guide (For self-study candidates)

[David_Chaviano]

Note: The self-study portion of the digital skills initiative is coming to an end.

• Application texts can be submitted here until November 4, 2024.
• Your learning must be completed by December 1, 2024, and a screenshot of completion together with your SAP Community username must be submitted to digitalskills@sap.com by this day at the latest.
• We will process your request and send you your redemption code by December 20, 2024 at the latest.
• You must redeem your code in the training shop by December 31, 2024, but can schedule your exam for any date in the following 12 months  (December 31, 2025 at the latest.)

Hello there and thank you for your interest in the digital skills initiative by SAP Learning!

The digital skills initiative is intended to help those who are generally considered to be underrepresented in the technology industry get a kick start in their careers within the SAP Ecosystem.

The definition of people considered to be underrepresented in the technology industry varies by geographic location. However, we can provide the following guideline to help you understand the sort of people we are looking to support with this initiative:

• Military veterans and their spouses, family and caregivers
• Women
• Single parents
• People who are physically disabled or neurodivergent
• People in remote or underserved locations that may be not have access to the same economic opportunities as their urban or more privileged counterparts 
• Minorities who may not have equal opportunity in their geographic location 
• First generation college students
• People looking to switch their careers mid-life
• People who lack the financial means to afford a certification attempt for themselves

If you identify as a person in one or several of these categories, the digital skills initiative might be for you. The final prerequisite is a willingness to learn more about SAP and to undergo the rigors of studying for SAP Certification.

Here are the next steps on how to proceed:

Step 1 – Create an SAP Account

You will need an SAP account to track your studies and take a certification exam. Watch the demo in this blog for help on how to do that. Please use the same email address that you intend on registering with the digital skills initiative.

Also be sure to join the beginner corner as demonstrated in the demo – this is how you can reach out and ask questions.

Step 2 - Let us know you are interested

Either leave a comment below or start a discussion in the beginner corner stating a clear interest in participating in the digital skills initiative. Feel free to include a bit about yourself like academic / professional background and why you feel you are a good fit to the program. We will send you a registration link to the initiative via direct message. Please ensure private messaging is enabled on your profile.

Another key reason for this step is if you need help with part of a learning journey that you selected (in step 4 below), you can come back here (the beginner corner) to ask for help.

Step 3 – Make sure you have context

We have a long blog available attempting to explain the whole "learning SAP" process from beginning to certification. Take from it what you need to ensure getting certified in SAP is worth the effort to you.

Step 4 - Begin studying

Pick a learning journey that best fits your interests which also leads to a certification. Any learning journey and any exam is covered by this program. Study it to completion, then send a screenshot of the completion & your SAP Community username to digitalskills@sap.com  before 1 December 2024.

Here is a guide on how to determine if your learning journey is free of charge.

Step 5 – Receiving your certification attempt

After your learning journey completion is sent to digitalskills@sap.com, please give us some time to process your request. You will receive a redemption code for your SAP certification attempt as soon as we can get one to you.

• Please log into the SAP Training Shop  with the same email address that you registered with the digital skills initiative and place this product into your shopping basket.
• From there, follow this guide on how to use this campaign code to “pay” for your certification attempt.
• If you run into trouble with your code redemption, follow this guide.

Please redeem the code ASAP when you receive it. You can schedule the actual exam up to six month after redemption.

Step 6 - Schedule your exam

Check out our blog on how to schedule your SAP Certification exam.

Step 7 - Explore Career Options

Check out the career corner

Here is a guide on how to approach networking within the SAP Community & Ecosystem

We wish you the best of luck in your learning journey! Leave a comment below if you have any questions.

Regards,

David

[nicklee]

Hello @David_Chaviano 

I identify as a person in the below categories:

• Minorities who may not have equal opportunity in their geographic location 
• First generation college students
• People looking to switch their careers mid-life

I am willing to learn more about SAP and to undergo the rigors of studying for SAP Certification. Looking forward to these series of certification attempts!

Thank you

NL

[David_Chaviano]

Hi @John24 ,

Sorry to hear about the setback. Check your private messages. Also, I tagged you under a blog from @L_Skorwider - he's got a lot of great content on Basis.

[IsraelMokgwetsi]

Greetings, fellow enthusiasts of the SAP universe! As I embark on my journey into the realm of SAP, I am filled with a mix of excitement, curiosity, and a hint of anticipation. Allow me to introduce myself: I'm Israel Mokgwetsi, a budding explorer eager to learn more about SAP.

[Plutonium]

Hello @David_Chaviano,

I am from APAC Region and need to join this beautiful program, I am eager to explore new opportunities and paths in the SAP domain.

I identified myself as a member of following categories
• First generation college students

[jordinoriega]

Hello @David_Chaviano,

I would like to  participate in the digital skills initiative. I am currently studying an Associate Degree to become a developer.

I have been using SAP as an end user for 9 years. I developed some macros to automate some tasks between SAP and Excel. 

I studied mechanical engineering a long time ago and I always enjoyed app developing. I am not working now to focus on study. For that reason I believe I fit into this category:

• People looking to switch their careers mid-life

Thank you and regards 

[SalmanNiazi]

Hi @David_Chaviano @

To fulfill the applicability criteria, i have identified myself in ;

• People looking to switch their careers mid-life

• People in remote or underserved locations that may be not have access to the same economic opportunities as their urban or more privileged counterparts 

I have a background in Accounting and have been working in this field for 10 years. Recently, I realized how important ERP systems are, and I’m really interested in becoming an ERP consultant. I have some experience using SAP in my current job, and it has sparked my interest in learning more about it.Switching careers mid-life can be challenging, but I am very motivated. My goal is to move from being an accountant to an ERP consultant, and I believe that gaining SAP certification will help me achieve this. This opportunity to learn and get certified in SAP is something I don’t want to miss this opportunity.

Thank you for providing us this opportunity.

Regards.

[hello_lui]

Hi @David_Chaviano 
I identify myself under category: Women; People looking to switch their careers mid-life

I am a software tester engineer and been testing SAP for 12 years now.
I really want to broaden my knowledge in SAP and deep dive into SD, MM, APO module.

Thank you.

[MikeBretz]

Hello @David_Chaviano 

I identify as a person in the below categorie:

• People who are physically disabled or neurodivergent

I really love working with SAP because it helps businesses improve their processes. It's amazing to see how technology can make such a big difference. I want to keep learning and growing in this field to develop my skill set with the SAP platform to hopefully be in a position where I can utilize my training to give back to others in the future. .

I believe it will help me learn more and become even better at what I do. I know that the world of technology is always changing, and I want to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements.I am grateful for this opportunity and excited about the possibilities ahead. Thank you for considering my application for the digital skills initiative.

Sincerely,

Mike Bretz

[Thirupathi]

Dear David,

Thank you for your email and for the wonderfrul opportunity to participate in the digital skills initiative by SAP Learning. I am very much interested in the Digital initiative program as I have moved to a new country and trying to skill up to get job opportunities . I have a background in CPI and I keen eager to upskill in CPI domain.

BR,

Thirupathi.

[Aggunna]

Thanks for you informational Blog Post.

I am delighted to express my strong interest in participating in the digital skills initiative by SAP Learning! As a Graduate from a remote area in India, I understand the challenges of accessing economic opportunities and quality education in my region. This initiative presents an incredible opportunity for me to gain valuable skills within the SAP Ecosystem and kick start my career in the technology industry.

I will promptly create an SAP account using the provided guidelines and join the beginner corner to engage and seek support during my learning journey.

I'm being part of a consultant I'm much happy to see this event. The areas and service that sap is providing is uniquely serves best efficient for business and to use as I tried to explore, .With the announcement of chance supports my self in lightening up and taking my service to next level which drives as #RISE with SAP . Loves to hear makes me inspires more that boosts my colleagues too

[akaliwo]

Hello @David_Chaviano 

My name is Anita. I wanted to take part because I want to re-skill. 

I've previously worked as a professional singer, a customer representative, a Level 1 technical support agent and a social media moderator. After spending the last 4 years taking care of my daughter, I'd want to establish  a new career.

After getting the following certifications; Comptia A+, BCS foundation in Business Analysis. I believe that learning SAP would be ideal for me to achieve my goals. In the end I'd like to become a SAP consultant.

I live in the UK, I'm bilingual in French and English. I'm a woman who is also part of a minority. I have a French high school Baccalaureat.

Thank you for your consideration

[ArnoldSinclair]

My name is Thabo Arnold Sentle, and I am currently a SAP Basis Administrator based in the vibrant and diverse country of Botswana. Over the years, I have dedicated myself to ensuring the stability, efficiency, and security of SAP environments. This role has been immensely rewarding, offering me deep insights into the technical backbone of SAP systems and a profound appreciation for the meticulous work that keeps these systems running smoothly.

However, I believe in continuously evolving and challenging myself, which has led me to a new career aspiration. I am eager to transition into a role as an HR specialist with a focus on Configuring SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central Core. This shift aligns with my passion for human resources and my commitment to leveraging technology to enhance organizational effectiveness and employee satisfaction.

The decision to pivot from a technical role to HR is driven by my desire to be at the intersection of people and technology. Human resources play a critical role in any organization, and I am inspired by the potential of SAP SuccessFactors to transform HR processes, making them more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly. By becoming certified in Configuring SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central Core, I aim to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to implement and manage solutions that empower HR teams and improve employee experiences.

The SAP community has always been a source of inspiration and support for me. It is a space where professionals share knowledge, tackle challenges, and celebrate advancements together. I am excited to bring my technical expertise and enthusiasm for HR to this community, contributing to discussions, learning from experienced peers, and supporting others on their SAP journeys.

I am enthusiastic about the journey ahead and confident that my dedication, combined with the support of this incredible community, will enable me to achieve my goals. I look forward to connecting with fellow SAP professionals, exchanging insights, and contributing to the vibrant discussions that make this community thrive.

Thank you for your support and encouragement as I take this exciting step towards becoming an HR specialist and a certified SAP SuccessFactors expert.

Thanks.

[David_Chaviano]

Thanks everyone for your responses over the weekend! Invites sent out.

[Connie_W]

Hi @David_Chaviano ,

 I have completed a SAP Learning Journey, it is helful for me as a FICO analyst.

Thank you!

Regards,

Connie

[Ritesh911]

Hi @David_Chaviano ,

Thank you for the opportunity.

I identify myself as person from geographical remote location and want to upskill my SAP skills to switch career.

I've registered for digital skills initiative via link and finished Discovering SAP BTP learning journey. I'm also learning management of production in S/4 HANA and trying to learn about SAP technology and it's offered solutions.

Regards,

Ritesh Sharma 

# SAP production planning

[Neethu_Lohi]

Hello David,

I am an SAP ABAP Developer with 9+ years of experience. I had to take multiple breaks in my career due to relocation along with my family across the globe. I am looking forward to bounce back in my career. As a woman, I believe I can get great opportunity if I can upskill myself. 

Thank you so much for this opportunity to apply for free certification attempt.

Regards,

Neethu Lohi

[Raizo]

Hello,

I identify as a person in the below categories:

• People in remote or underserved locations that may be not have access to the same economic opportunities as their urban or more privileged counterparts 
• People looking to switch their careers mid-life

I have a background in business administration and have been working in this field for 5 years. Recently, I realized how important ERP systems are, and I’m really interested in becoming an ERP consultant. I have some experience using SAP in my current job, and it has sparked my interest in learning more about it.Switching careers mid-life can be challenging, but I am very motivated. My goal is to move from being an accountant to an ERP consultant, and I believe that gaining SAP certification will help me achieve this. This opportunity to learn and get certified in SAP is something I don’t want to miss this opportunity.

Thank you for providing us this opportunity.

Best regard,

Anh Duc Le

[LAB93]

Hello @David_Chaviano, I'm Luis Burd, an industrial engineer specializing in project management.

I identify as a person in the below category:

• Minorities who may not have equal opportunity in their geographic location 

Since arriving in the US, my passion for project management has been a driving force in my career. I'm excited about joining the digital skills initiative to learn SAP, which plays a crucial role in modern project management. Mastering SAP will not only enhance my skills but also make me a more competitive professional. I'm eager to seize this opportunity to expand my knowledge and apply SAP tools effectively in real-world projects.

[anthonyjsc]

Hello @David_Chaviano,

I am an ABAP Developer and I am studying SAP Cloud to upgrade my skills for work.

Thank you so much for this opportunity to apply for a free certification attempt.

Regards,

Anthony.

[LynnLe]

Hello @David_Chaviano 

My name is Lynn. I identify as a person in the below categories:

• People in remote or underserved locations that may be not have access to the same economic opportunities as their urban or more privileged counterparts
• People looking to switch their careers mid-life
• Woman

I currently live in Vietnam and am fluent in Japanese, English, and Vietnamese, plus French at a business level. My professional background includes roles as a Coordinator, Project Manager, Account Manager, and currently as a Business Developer for an ITO company. 

With my experience, current connections and abilities, I want to switch to a SAP consultant career to assist customers with SAP implementations across various countries.

Thank you for your consideration.
Lynn Le

[Kurnia_Kadir]

Hello @David_Chaviano 

I would like to express my gratitude and interest in joining and participating in the Digital Skills Initiative by SAP.

A big thank you to you and your team in SAP for organizing this great program.

Below are the modules that I have explored recently, which align with my experience and my interest to deep dive into this learning journey as a beginner and to kickstart a new career:

• 1. SAP BTP
• 2. SAP S/4HANA EWM ABAP
• 3. SAP S/4HANA Cloud
• 4. SAP Build

I am participating in this program for the following reasons:

• 1. Career Shift/Job Switch
• 2. New Midlife Career
• 3. Career Advancement
• 4. Life Changing
• 5. Single Parent

I would appreciate it if I could join this great program. Thank you.

Warm regards,
Kurnia Kadir

[Former Member]

Hi @David_Chaviano,

My name is Lan. Currently, I am a full-time Junior SAP Consultant. My expertise is with SAP Cloud, and I am looking for opportunities to strengthen my digital skills with SAP. 

I am passionate about learning and development and SAP offers a variety of learning journeys and certification to fulfill my professional development.

Thank you for considering.

[sattisahab]

Hi @David_Chaviano my name is Shahzaib Rizwan and i live in a remote area of Pakistan and would like to enroll myself in your digital skills initiative. I have just started my career in Accounts & Finance and am eager to learn and improve myself further. I know that SAP is one of the best accounts and finance software in the world. Kindly accept this application so that i may start learning more about SAP and how to use it as well as attain certifications in SAP, thankyou.

[JClaude]

I am interested in the SAP courses related to business and development certifications. I have worked in tech and systems for several years. I am part of under-represented minority and I identify as a person in the below categories:

• Minorities who may not have equal opportunity in their geographic location
• People looking to switch their careers mid-life

I am looking at the SAP Certified Associate related to SAP S/4HANA Cloud. Having the certification will allow me to take advantage of the numerous ERP opportunities and give back to the community.

[David_Chaviano]

Hi @JClaude - Can you check your settings to ensure you can receive private messages? I am unable send you an invitation.

[Sasa_Femi]

Good day, sir.

My name is Sasa Tunde Femi from Nigeria. I identify as someone from a remote or underserved location that lacks access to the same economic opportunities as urban or more privileged areas. I graduated among the top five in my geology class with a strong 2:1. I have been looking to transition to IT to become more employable, but I have not succeeded so far. This is why I am seeking the opportunity to embark on this journey with SAP. Please consider my application and grant me the opportunity to become an SAP consultant. Thank you.

[Faith1]

I am a woman and a first-generation college graduate in Logistics and Supply Chain. Currently, I hold a SAP ERP Fundamentals certification, which has provided me with a solid foundation in the SAP ecosystem. I am eager to upskill myself and enhance my career by pursuing additional SAP certifications. The digital skills initiative by SAP Learning presents a fantastic opportunity for me to expand my knowledge and expertise, and I am enthusiastic about the chance to advance my career within the SAP ecosystem.  I am passionate about learning and committed to undergoing the rigorous study required for SAP certification. Thank you for considering my application.

[JClaude]

Thanks for the reply @David_Chaviano. I have enabled the options in General & Private. I sent you a test message ! JC

[MikeBretz]

Hello @David_Chaviano 

I have completed the Digital Skills Initiative registration form.  Does the Digital Skills Initiative program give access to a SAP Learning Hub subscription?

Thank you for your response.

Sincerely,

Mike

[KienHung]

Hi @David_Chaviano ,

A s a Basis consultant based in Vietnam, I've found that my experience and contributions may not always be fully recognized due to my position in mid-career. However, I am eager to pivot and explore new opportunities. I identify as people looking to switch careers in mid-life. I tried to learn more courses related to BTP and HANA Cloud on SAP learning journey.

I hope I can get SAP certificates to bring more value to my carrer path and have opportunity to change the new job. I'm eager to transition into S4HANA administrator or working more with BTP HANA cloud. Please kindly consider my application for free certification attempt. Your assistance would be invaluable in helping me achieve my goal.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,
Hung

[oohitha]

Hi @David_Chaviano

This is a great initiative, and I would like to be a part of it.I am an SAP consultant with ample experience in SAP EWM module. I have already completed the learning journey and it is quite interesting. I want to complete the certification so that I can test the knowledge I possess, and this certification helps in the growth of my career opportunities.

[ashsoh]

Dear @David_Chaviano ,

I identify myself as transitioning out of my current career . I am an electronics engineer in project management and want to gain SAP skills as I am deeply interested in it. I developed interest in it when I found many of the companies I worked for had SAP installed and was fascinated by how complex processes were made easy in SAP and saved time and money for the company. I have left my current job and would be devoting full time to gain the certification to enable my transitioning into SAP.

Would deeply appreciate of you could approve my application for the free certification attempt so that I can enter this exciting world of SAP with confidence and contribute to greater good of businesses.

Many thanks and have a great day

Regards

Ash

[Teawy]

Hello @David_Chaviano ,

I am a woman and a migrant to Canada. 

I would like to advance in my finance and accounting career but most of the organizations I want to work with require  SAP knowledge which I currently do not have. I believe this free certification will help me up-skill, make my application more visible, and provide the knowledge needed when I eventually and the role.

Kindly consider me for the free certification.

Thank you,

Teawy

[David_Chaviano]

@Teawy @ashsoh - Can you check your user setting and confirm that you can receive private messages? I can't get an invite to you.

@MikeBretz - Im afraid not. Just a certification attempt. The learning content is free on learning.sap.com though!

[Trang_Jane]

Hi @David_Chaviano,

I'm writing to express my interest in participating in this digital skills initiative. 
I am a Vietnamese lady who has a Bachelor's Degree in Purchasing and Logistics Engineering. I am a first-generation college graduate in my family. During my studies, I was introduced to SAP via ERPSim. I have participated to quite many ERP simulation game competitions both regionally and internationally. Those valuable learning experiences and self-research have strongly inspired me to pursue my career as an SAP consultant. I am taking some courses related to SAP S/4HANA Cloud. I am willing to learn even more and get certificates.
I would love to be part of the digital skills initiative, as this will take me a step closer to achieving my dream of becoming an SAP consultant. Thank you for considering my application.
Best regards, 

Trang Dang 

[Stefan_Remus]

@David_Chaviano

 I want to participate in the initiative:

At 39 years old, my passion for SAP technologies and my experience in logistics and process optimization motivate me to further deepen my knowledge and contribute as an SAP consultant to the optimization of business processes. Being future-oriented, I see the Digital Skills Initiative as the perfect opportunity to expand my skills and obtain a certification that will help me establish myself in the technology industry.

I look forward to learning more about SAP and tackling the challenges of the SAP certification program.

Thank you for this wonderful opportunity!

Kind regards,

Stefan Remus

[jitender_jeetu2001]

hello , my name is Jitender singh (B.tech in IT from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastah university, Delhi India ) and really interested in this beginners journey, have read all posts and comments, I want to learn Gen AI  courses recommended by SAP .  I am interested to completed SAP certification . 

Thank you for considering my application.

Best Regards,

Jitender singh

[ashsoh]

Hi @David_Chaviano 

Thx for your reply above . I checked that the private message is turned on 

My Settings -> Preferences ->Private messenger ->Turn on private messages ( enabled)

I also sent you a private message which you can reply to send the activation link otherwise my email id is sohani.ashu@gmail.com

Many thx

Ash

[priyamvadasharma]

Hello @David_Chaviano ,

I am experienced SAP professional in BI tool.

I am interested to switch my area of work to SAP BTP, Signavio and S/4 HANA implementations.

In this regard I already shortlisted few courses on Learning hub and interested to earn this certificate

SAP Certified Associate - Process Data Analyst - SAP Signavio

Do I need to mail my interest for redeem coupon?

Thanks

Priyamvada

Priyamvada

 

[David_Chaviano]

Thanks everyone for sharing a bit about yourselves. Invites sent out!

[Prudhvi1]

Hello @David_Chaviano . I am Prudhvi from India, I am interested in upskilling myself in SAP Successfactors. Please send me a registration link to the initiative. Thank you.

[Mitch]

Hi @David_Chaviano 
I am excited to apply for the digital skills initiative program, which aligns with my career goals and passion for process automation. 

As a Planner EAM responsible for maintaining master data in SAP PM, I recognize the importance of upskilling to remain relevant in the industry. This program offers a unique opportunity to enhance my skills in automation, enabling me to drive efficiency and innovation in my current role.

Moreover, it will expand my career prospects and open up new avenues for growth. I am eager to be part of this program and leverage the skills and knowledge gained to make a meaningful impact in my organization and the industry.

Regards 
Mitch

[Yiling_322]

Hello @David_Chaviano,

I am Yiling He from China and I identify myself in the following categories:

• Women
• People in remote or underserved locations that may not have access to the same economic opportunities as their urban or more privileged counterparts.

SAP certification will boost my skill set and significantly aid in job finding. The comprehensive training provides valuable expertise in enterprise resource planning, opening doors to global opportunities and enhancing career prospects. For someone from a remote area, this certification is a key step towards professional growth and success.

Regards,

Yiling He

[Tomas_]

Dear @David_Chaviano,

I'd love to participate in the Digital Skills Initiative. I am a person in the following categories:

• Minorities who may not have equal opportunity in their geographic location 
• People looking to switch their careers mid-life

I am willing to learn more about SAP and to undergo the rigors of studying for SAP Certification.

I come from a background in Marketing, and as a newcomer I'm trying to switch to a business analysis and SAP consultant career. I feel I would be a fit for the program as I really enjoy leveraging data to understand and improve business performance, as well as working with technology.

Thank you,

Tomas

[betsybaker]

Under this category (women), I request to be a candidate for the digital skills initiative please 

[momo_131]

Hi @David_Chaviano ，

Very excited to get a chance to participate in the digital initiative program, and already finished one learning path in our learning hub.

Being a new comer in SAP area, I bumped into difficuties such as not being regarded as a professional tech guy as a young women, so i hope the intiative can give me a chance to acquire an official certification to prove my competence and get acknowleged by more clients.

Best regards,

[Kaylagarza1025]

Hi,

My name is Kayla Garza and I am a female who is trying to return to the workforce after taking time off for my family.  I have been having a very difficult time finding the remote work that I seek,  so hopefully a few certifications will put me back on the map. 

[Kuldeep]

Hello @David_Chaviano 

I have been working as SAP Business One consultant since last 8 years. I am a first generation college graduate in my family and looking to switch my career path. I have always dreamed about working with SAP ECC in the initial phase of my career and I believe this is a great opportunity for me to learn SAP S/4 HANA Public Cloud.

With this initiative, I would be able to even certify myself as an SAP S/4 HANA Public Cloud - Implementation consultant and later also want to complete SAP Certified Associate - SAP S/4 HANA Cloud. I want to grow old in SAP Space and it seems like a high time for me to make a career change.

I would be grateful if I am provided with this opportunity to be able to take a free certification attempt and would also build a base to carry on further to achieve my end goal.

Thanks & Regards,

Kuldeep

[DannyNu617]

Hi,

I am a retired veteran and work in the supply chain logistics field. I work with SAP and have for years and will like to improve my skills and learn more about SAP to assist the supply chain more behind scenes. 

[B4dba]

Hello David,

Thank you for launching the Digital Skills Initiative by SAP Learning.

I am a woman and would like to apply so I can upskill.

Thank you for the opportunity.