AfriLabs has launched “AfriLabs Academy” to foster innovation in Africa

AfriLabs, a network of technology innovation hubs across Africa, has successfully launched an academy to provide startup ecosystem enablers with the necessary skills and knowledge to support African businesses. The event took place in a virtual ceremony on the 18th of May 2022, with major stakeholders and key players in the African Innovation Ecosystem in attendance.

According to Executive Director, Anna Ekeledo, “The AfriLabs Academy is a knowledge repository for innovation hubs and other stakeholders across Africa designed to equip startup ecosystem enablers with the needed skills and training to support African startups.”

It is an initiative of AfriLabs and a part of the AfriLabs Capacity Building Programme. The programme was designed to equip African Hub managers and staff, ESOs and other startup support structures with the training and management skills needed to improve their ability and capacity to support the growing number of startups and MSMEs in their communities.

Upon completion of the programme, participants will obtain a certification with the Strathmore University logo crested on it. The University co-created and certified the content on AfriLabs Academy, which was built based on a needs assessment conducted to identify the needs of ESOs and hubs.

The courses were designed by Africans for African hubs with a strong emphasis on the challenges and realities that exist in Africa today. In addition to the course material, exercises and quizzes have been included to maximise interactivity for enhanced assimilation and enjoyable learning experiences.

AfriLabs says it’s responding to the “demands from the innovation ecosystem for greater support in building successful tech- startups, and the critical need to build cadres of skilled and effective leaders by adapting best skills, practices and strategies unique to the African context.”

Experts in building ecosystems from all over Africa will teach the participants how to build successful startups and MSMEs. Among the available courses are management, product evolution, partnership building, fundraising, etc.

As Nanko Madu, Director of Programmes at AfriLabs, noted, “The Needs Assessment report established a need for a comprehensive harmonised ESOs curriculum framework that addresses the skills and business development gaps as well as their financial sustainability. The AfriLabs Academy addresses the skills and knowledge gap.”

AfriLabs is a growing community of over 347 rapidly emerging tech hubs, promoting collaboration and innovation across the African continent in 52 countries. The network organisation has been supporting Innovation Centers across African countries since 2011. These hubs serve as centres that provide support to African entrepreneurs, innovators, developers, and youths.

By providing physical co-working and dedicated office spaces, as well as inclusive training and business, legal and financial support, we play an active role in helping to raise successful entrepreneurs who will create jobs and develop innovative solutions to African problems.

For more information about the platform and to make enquiries, kindly send an email to funmilayo@afrilabs.com. and cc: adebambo@gmail.com.