In an increasingly digital world, the importance of equipping Africa’s youth with digital skills cannot be overstated.
Africa will make up one-fifth of the total workforce and one-third of the total youth workforce in the world by 2030. It can seize the moment and harness its youth to become a global hub for tech skills, but the digital skills gap looms large.
Developing the skills needed to compete in the global digital economy is critical. We must focus our skilling efforts on three key areas to fulfil the vision of Africa as a tech hub – building digital literacy, giving entrepreneurs the skills to thrive, and driving the AI skills set needed to embrace the full potential of this technology.
As technology swiftly transforms the workforce landscape, employers globally are looking for workers with enhanced digital skills. And, according to the World Bank, most of the demand for these digital skills will come from occupations outside of ICT specialisations, driven by businesses embracing digital technologies.
It is anticipated that 70 percent of this demand will be for foundational skills, followed by 23 percent for intermediate skills outside the ICT sector.
Startup and SME skilling must be the second area of focus. Though 10 to 12 million African youth join the workforce every year, just three million jobs are created. Helping to support and sustain entrepreneurship will go a long way to solving the employment challenge.
Beyond employment, small businesses and startups are often at the forefront of innovation, providing solutions to Africa’s most pressing societal challenges.
Advancements in AI technology are making headlines across the world, and with good reason. AI is a defining technology of our time. And as companies invest in AI, the demand for skilled professionals will continue to increase.
According to the State of AI in Africa report, if current trends continue, AI and its attendant startup ecosystems in Africa could win big. It is estimated that capturing just 10 percent of the global AI market could expand Africa’s economy by as much as 50 percent of current GDP.
To benefit from the global transformation currently taking place, we must empower businesses and people across Kenya to harness the game-changing potential of AI. Strategic partnerships across the private sector can unlock the potential of Africa’s youth by allowing for the implementation of more holistic and sustainable initiatives.
To benefit from the global transformation currently taking place, we must empower businesses and people across Kenya to harness the game-changing potential of AI. Strategic partnerships across the private sector can unlock the potential of Africa’s youth by allowing for the implementation of more holistic and sustainable initiatives.
By bridging the digital divide and fostering innovation, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future where African talent can shine on the global stage. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and ensure that no one is left behind in this digital revolution.
The writer is the Country Manager, Microsoft Kenya
