Zambia has launched a new online entrepreneurship training program aimed at equipping young people with digital and business skills, as part of an effort to foster innovation and economic growth in the country. The initiative, introduced by the Zambian Ministry of Technology and Science in collaboration with the Finnish government, is supported by Nokia and Airtel Networks Zambia Plc, providing both training and connectivity to participants.
The eight-week program is designed for 100 young Zambians and focuses on developing their entrepreneurial mindset and digital competencies. Nokia, a Finnish technology company, is managing the training content and certification, while Airtel Zambia is providing free data bundles to ensure seamless participation.
Hon. Felix C. Mutati, Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science, underscored the importance of digital skills in driving economic development.
“As the Ministry of Technology and Science, we are honored to collaborate with the Embassy of Finland, Nokia, and Airtel Zambia in advancing digital skills development for Zambian youth. By leveraging ICT-driven upskilling and reskilling initiatives, we aim to enhance productivity, foster a culture of innovation, and accelerate entrepreneurship. Digital transformation is at the heart of economic growth, and empowering young people with the necessary technological competencies will position Zambia at the forefront of Africa’s digital revolution,” he said.
The program is modeled on Finland’s technical and vocational education and training (TVET) framework, which emphasizes hands-on learning and industry partnerships. Omnia Education Partnerships (OEP), a Finnish educational organization, is delivering the training, which includes online assessments and in-person networking sessions at entrepreneurial hubs. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a downloadable certificate.
Highlighting Finland’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s digital transformation, Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio described the initiative as a strong example of the countries’ collaboration in education and business development.
“Finland and Zambia share strong and active relations in private sector development, and this collaboration is a great example of those ties. Moreover, the program effectively demonstrates how Finnish expertise in education and educational technology can support Zambia’s efforts to digitalize its education system and foster entrepreneurial thinking,” he said.
Airtel Zambia’s Managing Director, Hussam Baday, emphasized the role of connectivity in driving opportunity and innovation.
“At Airtel, we believe in the power of connectivity to unlock potential and drive transformation. Our partnership with Nokia and the Ministry of Technology and Science to support online youth entrepreneurship training is a testament to that belief. By providing free data bundles, we are not just connecting young people to the internet – we are connecting them to opportunity, knowledge, and a brighter future,” he said.
Nokia’s involvement in the initiative extends beyond providing the curriculum. The company is also responsible for managing trainers and ensuring that participants receive quality instruction that aligns with global education and industry standards.
“We are proud to collaborate with Airtel and the Zambian Ministry of Technology and Science to launch the Entrepreneurship Training Program for Zambian youth. Developed in partnership with Omnia Education Partnerships, this program follows Finnish education and training standards,” said Nitin Dahiya, Airtel Africa Account Executive at Nokia.
With Zambia working to strengthen its digital economy, initiatives like this program offer a pathway for young people to acquire the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly technology-driven world. As connectivity expands and entrepreneurship gains momentum, the country’s next generation of business leaders may emerge from programs like this—ready to build, innovate, and shape Zambia’s economic future.
