Microsoft Africa has set an ambitious goal to train four million young Africans in digital skills, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, aiming to prepare them for the future workforce.
Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, unveiled the initiative during the company’s AI Tour 2025 event in Johannesburg, South Africa. She highlighted the potential of AI to revolutionize the continent, particularly given Africa’s youthful demographic, with 60% of its population under the age of 35.
“In Africa, AI is not just a concept, it’s a transformative force,” Barnard said during her presentation titled “AI is Driving Transformation.” She emphasized that leveraging emerging technologies is essential for businesses seeking growth and for the continent’s broader economic development.
Microsoft’s initiative will focus on equipping young people with the skills needed to thrive in digital, cybersecurity, and AI sectors. Barnard explained, “By providing skilling opportunities and access to industry-recognized certifications, our youth will be well-positioned to compete on the global stage.”
As part of the initiative, Microsoft has launched a free AI Skills Navigator portal, offering assessments to guide individuals through their AI learning journey. The goal is to help both individuals and organizations build the AI competencies required to navigate today’s fast-evolving technological landscape.
“This program is about more than just creating jobs; it’s about fostering a culture of innovation,” Barnard said. “Digital skills are the foundation of modern innovation.”
She also underscored the importance of collaboration with ICT training providers, governments, NGOs, and both public and private sector organizations to expand the reach and impact of the AI-skilling project.
According to Microsoft, the World Economic Forum’s 2025 Future of Jobs report reveals a significant skills gap, with over 60% of companies identifying it as a major barrier to economic transformation by 2030. The report calls for urgent upskilling and reskilling to meet the demands of emerging roles in technology, AI, and the green economy.
Barnard further stated that by 2030, Africa has the potential to become a key player in the global economy, using AI to transform industries and boost productivity. “By fulfilling the promise of AI, we can position Africa to become the next global economic powerhouse,” she concluded.