African telecommunications operator MTN has added an artificial intelligence (AI) job board to its Skills Academy platform to connect young people with employment in the digital economy.
The integration combines learning, job discovery and application tracking on one platform, aiming to align training directly with market demand in 11 markets across the continent.
Rather than solely listing vacancies, the AI tool analyses skill gaps and automatically recommends free training courses to match employer requirements.
Demand for digital skills across sub-Saharan Africa is projected to reach 230 million jobs by 2030, according to estimates by the International Finance Corporation.
Africa has the world’s youngest population, with more than 60% of inhabitants under the age of 25. However, high unemployment levels persist across major markets.
"Young people start from different circumstances, but they share the need for relevant skills and clearer routes to opportunity," says Marina Madale, executive for sustainability and shared value at MTN Group.
"Digital and financial inclusion becomes more economically meaningful when it helps people participate in the economy. Strengthening the path from skills to work requires action across business, government and education."
The job board features listings from employers across Africa and matches vacancies to candidates based on skills, location and career goals.
Applicants can track progress through interview and offer stages, or access targeted courses in coding, data analytics, cybersecurity and entrepreneurship to qualify for specific roles.
Since its launch in 2022, the MTN Skills Academy recorded nearly 526 000 enrolments, 192 000 course completions and 1 122 completed specialisations.
The platform includes accessibility options for users with visual, cognitive and mobility impairments, and issues verifiable digital certificates upon course completion.
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