In a bold move to drive artificial intelligence (AI) adoption across the continent, AltSchool Africa, an edtech platform dedicated to equipping Africans with digital skills, has launched the “AI for 10 Million Africans” initiative.

The programme, unveiled on Wednesday in Lagos, aims to provide free AI education to 10 million people, breaking down misconceptions and empowering Africans with the knowledge to integrate AI into their careers and daily lives.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Adewale Yusuf, CEO and Co-founder of AltSchool Africa, emphasized the initiative’s importance in preparing Africans for the future.

“The future belongs to those who are prepared. AI is no longer a technology of the future—it is shaping industries, economies, and everyday life today,” Yusuf said.

“With this initiative, we are taking a bold step to ensure that Africans are not left behind. It is more than an educational programme—it is a movement to create opportunities and bridge the knowledge gap.”

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Comprehensive AI Learning for All Skill Levels

The AI for 10 Million Africans programme is designed to cater to learners of all levels. According to Foluso Folorunso, the project lead, the curriculum starts with foundational courses to introduce AI concepts and dispel misconceptions. Over time, participants will advance to technical topics, including:

• Machine Learning
• Data Science
• AI Engineering
• Practical AI Applications

“Many people in Africa still view AI as distant or intimidating. Our goal is to change that,” Folorunso said. “This initiative offers structured, accessible, and engaging learning experiences to help Africans understand AI, leverage it for growth, and build AI-powered solutions.”

The programme will feature hands-on projects to provide practical experience and will collaborate with universities, tech firms, and government agencies to expand access across the continent.

Courses will be offered in multiple languages—including English, French, Swahili, and Arabic—and participants will receive recognised certifications and career support to apply their AI skills in various industries.

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Building an AI-Powered Future for Africa

Highlighting the long-term vision, Yusuf described the initiative as a catalyst for transforming Africa’s technological and economic landscape.

“This is not just another AI course. We are building a movement that will impact Africa’s future. By empowering millions with AI skills, we are fostering innovation, creating jobs, and ensuring Africans are actively shaping the AI-driven world,” he said.

To achieve this ambitious goal, AltSchool Africa is calling on organisations, government bodies, and industry leaders to collaborate and support the initiative through sponsorships, mentorship programmes, and employment opportunities for certified learners.

“We believe in the power of collective effort. ‘AI for 10 Million Africans’ is an opportunity for organisations to make a lasting impact by supporting AI education at scale,” Yusuf added.

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Empowering the Next Generation

Christine Ashimwe, AltSchool Africa’s business developer for East Africa, underscored the urgency of preparing African youths for the AI revolution.

“AI is not the future; AI is the present. It is already shaping how we work and live, and its impact will only grow,” Ashimwe said.

“In East Africa, where 146 million young people are looking for opportunities, we must equip them to leverage AI, not fear it. The next wave of African innovation will be powered by AI, and our mission is to ensure that our youths are not just spectators but leaders in this transformation.”

Through the AI for 10 Million Africans initiative, AltSchool Africa aims to close the knowledge gap, foster technological innovation, and empower Africans to take a leading role in the global AI revolution.