Google aims to train three million Africans in AI and digital skills by 2030

Google has announced a plan to train three million Africans in digital and artificial intelligence skills by 2030. The first target is 250,000 graduates by 2026.

The programme, called Skilling Africa with Google, merges more than fifteen existing training programmes into a single free learning platform. IT is open to students, job seekers, entrepreneurs and developers.

The platform provides courses in AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, digital marketing and small‑business development. IT includes Google Career Certificates, Hustle Academy and Google Cloud Skills, plus an AI study companion named SCOUT, visual skill trees and verifiable badges for employers.

To tackle affordability and connectivity issues, lessons can be downloaded over Wi‑Fi and completed offline, work on slow connections and entry‑level smartphones, and are offered in Hausa, English, Swahili and Arabic. The service launches on 2 November 2026 and is free for all eligible learners across the continent.

Alex Okosi, managing director of Google Africa, said the continent’s ability to capture an estimated $2.9 trillion AI‑related economic opportunity depends on building a skilled workforce. The training seeks to close the gap that leaves more than 90 percent of regional employers unable to find AI and cloud talent, with the real test being whether graduates secure jobs or start businesses that use these skills.