Vodacom Group, in collaboration with global partners including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, and Skillsoft, has unveiled a Digital Skills Hub aimed at equipping young Africans with critical digital skills.
The initiative, targeting eight countries, aspires to train one million young people by 2027, addressing the continent’s digital literacy gap.
The Digital Skills Hub offers self-paced training for individuals aged 18 to 35 in South Africa, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Mozambique, Lesotho, Egypt (Talimy), the Democratic Republic of Congo (VodaEduc), and Kenya (Industry Digital Talent Program). It complements Vodacom’s existing free e-learning platforms across these regions, which provide diverse online resources tailored to local needs.
In a statement, Vodacom highlighted its efforts to extend quality education to underserved areas via platforms like e-Fahamu in Tanzania, Faz Crescer in Mozambique, and Talimy in Egypt. These digital classrooms are designed to bridge educational inequalities and meet the growing demand for digital expertise across the continent.
The initiative responds to a pressing need outlined by the International Finance Corporation, which estimates that by 2030, over 230 million jobs in Africa will require digital skills. However, a significant gap between supply and demand for digital talent persists.
Shameel Joosub, CEO of Vodacom Group, emphasized the initiative’s broader social mission. “Africa faces challenges such as high unemployment, gender inequality, and limited access to education and essential services. These issues shape our purpose to connect for a better future. The Digital Skills Hub demonstrates our commitment to building a digital and inclusive Africa.”
Joosub further stressed the importance of investing in the continent’s youth. “With over 400 million young people aged 15 to 35, Africa has the world’s youngest population. Digital is the new currency, and equipping our youth with digital skills is crucial for their growth and the development of the continent.”
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Matimba Mbungela, Vodacom Group’s Chief Human Resources Officer, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Our goal is to address the digital skills shortage while nurturing a pipeline of young talent. This initiative will empower Africa’s youth and advance the continent’s digital future, fostering an inclusive digital economy.”
The Digital Skills Hub is a significant step towards building Africa’s digital workforce and empowering the next generation of innovators to drive the continent’s progress in a digital era.
