Last year April, Google pledged to train one million Africans in its Digital Skills programme. Yesterday the technology giant confirmed that it has reached its target early (in 11 months) and has set itself to train even more Africans in digital skills in the coming year. It hit the 500k milestone in October 2016.
In a statement issued to mark the milestone, Google says it is extending its commitment to the Digital Skills programme by assisting local communities further in several ways.
“First, Google will provide offline versions of its online training materials to reach individuals and businesses in low access areas where it is unable to hold physical training sessions. Additionally, Google will provide offline versions of the content in languages like Hausa, Swahili and IsiZulu.”
“The programme would also be addressing needs for small business owners looking to better understand how to take advantage of the web across Africa.”
The Digital Skills programme offered 89 courses through the online portal, and Google worked with 14 training partners covering more than 20 countries to offer face to face training.
“Having one-million digitally skilled young people in Africa is good for everyone. If young people have the right skills, they will build businesses, create jobs and boost economic growth across the continent. As we expand this initiative to reach more local areas across the continent, we hope to see more impact in everyday lives of Africans,” says Bunmi Banjo, Growth Engine & Brand Lead, Sub-Saharan Africa.
