More than 100 young Africans have been equipped with practical digital skills through a training initiative aimed at fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and participation in the digital economy.
The programme, facilitated by technology expert and Senior UI/UX Designer and Product Engineer, Emmanuel Brendan, was organised in partnership with the Veronica Anthony Foundation, TechnRise DTI, and other development partners.
Participants from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and other African countries received hands-on training in Artificial Intelligence (AI), UI/UX design, product development, data literacy, and other emerging technologies through community learning platforms and technology hubs.
The initiative was designed to bridge digital skills gaps, improve employability, and equip young people with the knowledge required to build careers, create businesses, and develop innovative solutions to local and global challenges.
Speaking on the programme, Brendan described digital literacy as a critical requirement for success in today’s economy.
“Digital literacy is no longer optional. It is the new literacy. If young Africans master digital skills today, they will not only secure jobs but also create solutions that solve local and global problems. That is how we build Africa’s digital future,” he said.
He explained that the training curriculum was intentionally designed to be practical and accessible, enabling participants without prior technology experience to understand key concepts in design thinking, product engineering, user experience, and digital innovation.
According to him, the initiative forms part of broader efforts to support youth development through mentorship, career guidance, and skills acquisition programmes that help participants transition from learning to earning.
Brendan also urged young Africans to embrace opportunities in the technology sector, noting that the continent’s youthful population can become a major driver of economic growth if equipped with relevant digital and entrepreneurial skills.
The programme underscores the growing role of digital skills development in promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic opportunities for young people across Africa.