AltSchool Africa has unveiled its ambitious “AI for 10M Africans” initiative, aimed at providing free artificial intelligence (AI) education to 10 million individuals across the continent. The programme seeks to demystify AI, correct misconceptions, and empower Africans with skills to integrate AI into their careers and daily lives.
According to the CEO of AltSchool Africa, Adewale Yusuf, the initiative is a bold step to ensure Africans are not left behind in the global AI revolution. “AI is shaping industries, economies, and everyday life today. This initiative is more than education; it is a movement to create opportunities and bridge the knowledge gap,” Yusuf said.
The programme is designed for learners at all levels, beginning with foundational AI courses and advancing to topics such as machine learning, data science, and AI engineering. It will be accessible in multiple languages, including English, French, Swahili, and Arabic, to ensure inclusivity.
Project lead Foluso Folorunso emphasized the need to make AI education less intimidating, noting that the initiative would provide structured and engaging learning experiences. “Many in Africa see AI as distant or complex. Our goal is to change that by making AI knowledge accessible and practical,” she said. Learners will also participate in hands-on projects to apply AI skills in real-world scenarios.
Strategic collaborations with universities, tech firms, and government agencies will support large-scale AI education and career development. The programme will also offer certification and job placement support to help learners integrate into AI-driven industries. Folorunso highlighted the initiative’s broader impact, stating that it would foster innovation, create jobs, and position Africa as a key player in the AI revolution.
“We are not just teaching AI; we are building a movement that will shape Africa’s technological and economic future,” she added. Yusuf underscored the importance of partnerships, calling on organisations and government bodies to support the initiative through sponsorships, mentorships, and employment opportunities for certified learners.
AltSchool Africa is also advocating for AI integration into African school curricula. Christine Ashimwe, the organisation’s business developer for East Africa, stressed the urgency of policy action, revealing ongoing collaborations with governments in Cabo Verde, Nigeria, and Rwanda. “Our education systems must evolve to prepare students for the AI-driven world,” she noted.
Yusuf acknowledged concerns over AI’s impact on jobs but urged Africans to embrace the technology. “AI might not replace you, but people who use AI will replace you,” he warned. As the programme expands, AltSchool Africa remains committed to making AI education widely accessible, ensuring that Africans are not only consumers but also innovators and leaders in the AI space.