JOHANNESBURG – Microsoft plans to equip 1 million South Africans with artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity skills by 2026, according to Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa.
Speaking at the company’s “AI Tour” event in Johannesburg, Barnard announced that the initiative will target a wide range of participants, including businesses, government institutions, and young people. She emphasized the importance of providing access to industry-recognized certifications to ensure the youth are prepared for global opportunities.
Although specific investment details were not disclosed, the initiative is part of Microsoft’s broader effort to expand digital skills across the continent. The company has already trained 4 million Africans over the past five years and committed to skilling 30 million more in the next five years.
Microsoft is also the first major global public cloud provider to establish data centers in South Africa.