Bridging Africa’s AI Skills Gap: New Programme Targets 55,000 SMEs

In a significant move to empower small businesses across the continent, HP and UpSkill Universe have launched the “AI Skills for Business” programme. This initiative aims to provide Nigerian and South African SMEs with free, practical training in artificial intelligence—skills essential for navigating today’s digital landscape.

The partnership builds on last year’s successful “Skills for Business” program which reached over 40,000 businesses. While awareness of AI is growing rapidly across Africa, confident application by small business owners hasn’t kept pace. Studies show that nearly 70% of SMEs are in the early stages of AI adoption and only 9% have integrated it into daily operations.

The new programme will offer a range of learning formats including self-paced courses, live virtual sessions, and an intensive bootcamp for top performers. Priority access will be given to youth and women-led businesses, with a target of 40% participation from these groups.

“Small businesses across Nigeria and South Africa already have the ambition to deploy AI,” said Gori Yahaya, Founder & CEO of UpSkill Universe. “What they lack is access to quality training tailored to their needs. We’ve designed this programme to move beyond reach and deliver measurable impact by giving business owners practical skills they can apply immediately.”

The initiative also addresses the need for mentorship—HP employees will serve as guides for bootcamp graduates as they implement AI solutions in their businesses.

Registration is now open at life-global.org/go/upskill, with live sessions beginning this month and the first bootcamp scheduled for January.