By Suara Sherif
Google has launched Skilling Africa with Google, a free online learning hub that consolidates more than 15 of its digital training programmes, alongside a target of equipping three million Africans with digital and artificial intelligence skills by 2030.
Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Africa, said the platform brings the company’s training programmes together to make digital and artificial intelligence education more accessible across the continent.
“Africa has a significant opportunity to shape the future of AI, but unlocking that opportunity will require people with the skills to build, use, and innovate with these technologies,” he said.
The hub offers courses in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, digital marketing and small business development, drawing together Hustle Academy, Google Career Certificates and Google Cloud Skills.
Google said the platform is built for varying levels of connectivity and device affordability, allowing users to download lessons over Wi-Fi and complete them offline without consuming additional mobile data. It also features an AI study companion, SCOUT, and awards verifiable badges on completion that learners can present to employers and clients.
The launch comes as more than 90 per cent of African employers reportedly struggle to find workers with practical skills in these areas. Google estimates Africa could unlock $2.9 trillion in economic opportunity from artificial intelligence, contingent on investment in human capital.
The company is targeting 250,000 graduates by the end of 2026 as its first milestone towards the 2030 goal, building on previous programmes through which more than seven million young Africans completed foundational digital training.
The platform is accessible at no cost to students, job seekers, entrepreneurs and developers without downloading an application.
