President of Microsoft Africa, Lillian Barnard, announced an ambitious commitment to skill one million South Africans in digital and AI technologies by 2026.
Speaking at the AI Tour in Johannesburg on Thursday, Barnard unveiled Microsoft’s AI Skilling Initiative, a program designed to address critical skills gaps and prepare South Africans for high-demand jobs in the global digital economy.
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Closing the digital skills gap with AI training in South Africa
The AI Skilling Initiative aims to bridge the growing skills gap identified by the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, which highlights that over 60 percent of companies face challenges due to a lack of skilled workers in emerging tech roles. Microsoft’s program will provide advanced training in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, equipping participants with industry-recognised certifications and tools needed to thrive in high-tech careers.
Lillian Barnard emphasised, “Harnessing the transformative power of AI is no longer a futuristic vision but a tangible reality for organisations seeking exponential growth. By democratising access to AI education, we aim to uplift entire communities and create a more equitable digital future for all.”
The program targets a broad audience, prioritising youth, companies, government bodies, and underserved communities. The initiative ensures training aligns with industry demands, fostering innovation and job creation across sectors through partnerships with educational institutions and organisations like Afrika Tikkun Services and Youth Employment Service (YES).
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Empowering Africa to lead in AI innovation
Microsoft’s initiative is part of its mission to deliver future-ready skills to four million African youth by 2026. The AI Skills Navigator portal is aligned with this goal, a free-to-access platform offering tailored learning paths and assessments to guide individuals on their AI knowledge journey.
“Digital skills are the foundation of modern innovation. Through this initiative, we want to ensure South Africans are at the forefront of technological advancement,” Barnard said, adding that the program fosters innovation and positions Africa as a significant player in the global AI-driven economy.
By 2030, Microsoft envisions a more equitable and prosperous Africa, leveraging AI to transform industries and drive sustainable growth.