Africa is a continent of extraordinary diversity and potential. Home to some of the fastest-growing economies in the world, the continent is becoming a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, and leading the way in digital innovation. The African Union recognizes science, technology, and innovation as tools to achieve continental development goals and aims to accelerate Africa’s transition to an innovation-led, knowledge-based economy. 

Despite a growing demand for skilled professionals, however, there remains a significant skills gap that disproportionately affects women and youth. Digital technologies can also offer innovative solutions to challenges like unemployment, food security, and climate change.  

The Developing Essential Digital Skills for Women and Youth programme in Africa trains women and youth in essential digital skills to navigate an ever-changing, digital-driven world. Launched in 2023, the programme seeks to equip over 5,000 women and youth with the skills to build and scale bankable innovations that respond to local social issues as well as grow their professional paths. 

The future of Africa relies on its youth. Equipping them with the right digital skills can create numerous opportunities for our continent.

– Emmanuel Mutabazi, founder of a digital training foundation and digital skills advocate, Rwanda

The 2023 programme was financially supported by the Government and People of Japan. It was implemented with the institutional support of public and private-sector organizations worldwide and delivered in collaboration with IBM and Microsoft.