Google has launched a free digital learning platform enabling Nigerians to acquire artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital skills offline.

The initiative targets training three million Africans by 2030, with 250,000 learners expected to graduate by the end of 2026.

The communications and public relations manager, West Africa, Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

The managing director, Google Africa, Alex Okosi, said Africa needed more people equipped to develop, use and innovate with AI technologies.

He said the continent had a significant opportunity to shape the future of AI through improved access to relevant digital skills.

According to him, the initiative would expand access to digital education and enable more Africans to participate in the digital economy.

“The programme is aimed at equipping three million people with digital and AI skills by 2030, with an initial target of 250,000 graduates by the end of 2026,” he said.

Mr Okosi said the initiative built on Google’s previous efforts, through which more than seven million young Africans had completed foundational digital training.

He explained that the platform, Skilling Africa with Google, brought together more than 15 training programmes covering various digital disciplines.

These include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analytics, digital marketing and small business development.

Mr Okosi said the platform was designed to accommodate learners facing limited internet connectivity and expensive mobile data.

“Users can download lessons through Wi-Fi and subsequently access the learning materials offline without incurring additional mobile data costs,” he said.

He added that the platform worked on entry-level smartphones and laptops without requiring users to download a separate application.

The learning hub incorporates Google’s Hustle Academy, which provides training for small business owners.

It also features Google Career Certificates for individuals pursuing careers in data analytics, IT support and cybersecurity.

Google Cloud Skills programmes are equally available to developers seeking to strengthen their technical expertise.

Mr Okosi said the platform also featured SCOUT, an artificial intelligence-powered study companion designed to support learners.

He explained that SCOUT could clarify unfamiliar concepts, answer questions and help users organise their study schedules.

Learners can also monitor their progress and earn verifiable badges upon completing courses, which they can present to prospective employers or clients.

The platform currently supports English, Swahili and Arabic, while additional African languages, including Hausa, are being introduced.

Mr Okosi said the initiative was free and open to students, job seekers, entrepreneurs and developers across Africa.

Interested learners can access the platform through skillingafrica.withgoogle.com 

(NAN).