This programme is made possible by the support of the Government and People of Japan.
Africa is a continent of extraordinary diversity and potential. With a population of over 1.4 billion people with the majority being youth, the continent is home to some of the fastest-growing economies in the world and is becoming more integrated into the global economy. Across the African continent, we are witnessing an unprecedented wave of innovation and disruption as technology is transforming every aspect of African society. However, more can be done to leverage the benefits of digital technologies. Africa has shown great potential and steady progress. Yet, it still faces serious challenges including power supply issues; lack of quality infrastructure; institutional failures that hinder the promotion of trade and investment; food insecurity; urbanization; urban and rural poverty; and socioeconomic inequality between urban and rural areas.
Providing training on Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) skills to the underrepresented, especially women and youth, can lead to increased leveraging of digital technology opportunities like the rest of the world. This can culminate in Africa becoming leaders in the adoption of new innovative technologies, which can provide solutions to some of the challenges faced by the continent.
To this end, this programme aims to enhance the employability and competitiveness of African women and youth in the global workforce, readying them with 4IR and future of work digital skills in a digital-driven world. Through partnership and collaboration, the participants will be mentored along their journey to unlock their potential and build sustainable ventures and businesses to improve the economic health of their communities, people and the planet.