Google has launched a free learning platform offering Nigerians access to more than 15 digital and artificial intelligence (AI) training programmes.

Google has launched a free learning platform offering Nigerians access to more than 15 digital and artificial intelligence training programmes, including courses that can be completed offline. BuyMaps

The platform, called Skilling Africa with Google, brings together the company’s existing digital and AI training programmes in one location to equip three million Africans with digital and AI skills by 2030. Google announced the launch on Monday, November 2, 2026, saying the platform was designed to make digital learning more accessible to people across Africa.

The programmes cover artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, digital marketing and small business development.

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They include Hustle Academy for small business owners, Google Career Certificates for people seeking careers in data analytics, IT support and cybersecurity, as well as Google Cloud Skills for developers. According to Google, the platform allows users to download lessons over Wi-Fi and complete them offline, reducing the need for mobile data while studying. It is also designed to work on entry-level smartphones and laptops, with faster loading speeds on slow internet connections.

The company said it was adding translations for major African languages, with Hausa among the first languages being introduced alongside English, Swahili and Arabic.

The platform also features an artificial intelligence study assistant, called SCOUT, which answers questions, explains unfamiliar terms and helps learners organise their study schedules. Learners can monitor their progress through visual skill trees and earn verifiable badges upon completing courses, which they can present to potential employers or clients.

Google said the initiative was designed to address the growing demand for AI and cloud computing skills across Africa, where more than 90 per cent of employers reportedly face difficulties finding workers with practical expertise in the areas.

Skilling Africa with Google aims to train three million people by 2030, with an initial target of 250,000 graduates by the end of 2026.

The initiative builds on Google’s claim that more than seven million young Africans have completed its foundational digital skills training programmes. Speaking on the launch, Google’s Managing Director for Africa, Alex Okosi, said the continent had a significant opportunity to shape the future of artificial intelligence but needed more people with the skills to develop and use the technology.

“Africa has a significant opportunity to shape the future of AI, but unlocking that opportunity will require people with the skills to build, use, and innovate with these technologies,” he said.

Okosi said the platform would bring Google’s training programmes together to make digital and AI learning more accessible across the continent.

He added that the target of equipping three million people by 2030 reflected the company’s commitment to helping Africans acquire skills needed to participate in the digital economy.