Lilian Barnard, president Microsoft Africa.

Microsoft Africa has set an ambitious goal of equipping four million African youths with future-ready skills in digital, cyber security, and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

Lillian Barnard, president of Microsoft Africa, revealed the plan today during the company's AI Tour 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Barnard said in a presentation titled 'AI is driving transformation', the technology represents a new era for Africa, which has a significant youth population, with 60% under the age of 35.

She went on to say AI will transform Africa, and leveraging the power of emerging technologies is no longer a pipe dream for businesses seeking growth.

To this end, she said: “We have set an ambitious target to deliver future ready skills to four million African youth for digital, cyber security and AI technologies.

“By providing skilling opportunities and access to industry recognised certifications, our youth will be well positioned to compete on the global stage.”

According to Microsoft, the programme targets a wide range of audience, with the aim of broadening participation in the digital economy.

Aligned to this initiative, Microsoft has introduced a free to learn AI Skills Navigator portal where people can take an assessment to guide them on their AI knowledge journey – the objective is to help individuals and organisations build AI skills.

“The programme is not just about employment but fostering a culture of innovation. Digital skills are the foundation of modern innovation,” said Barnard.

She emphasised the need of working with ICT training providers, government, non-governmental organisations, and public and private sector groups to expand the AI skilling project.

Furthermore, Microsoft said the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights a severe skills gap, with more than 60% of companies recognising it as a key hurdle to economic transformation by 2030.

The research highlights the critical need for upskilling and reskilling to meet the demands of emerging roles in technology, AI and the green economy.

Barnard said: “By 2030, the continent could become a more significant player in the global economy, drawing on AI to revolutionise industries and boost productivity.

“Together, by delivering on the promise of AI, we can chart a course for Africa to become the next global economic powerhouse.”