The African Development Bank (AfDB) and Intel formalized a partnership to enhance the digital ecosystem in Africa, specifically targeting the training of 3 million Africans and 30,000 government officials in artificial intelligence (AI) skills. This agreement was finalized during the AfDB’s Annual Meetings in Nairobi, Kenya.
Also read: Digital Future for Africa: African Development Bank and Intel to Train Millions in AI
The finalized deal was made official in June (2024).
In response to the digital skills gap, the partnership aims to create a substantial base of individuals proficient in Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) skills, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, health, and education.
The training initiative is designed to address socio-economic challenges and enhance productivity, thereby disrupting traditional growth cycles.
Specific concerns raised include the necessity for harmonized policy and regulatory frameworks across African nations regarding AI, 5G, and data management.
Ousmane Fall, Acting Director of Industrial and Trade Development at AfDB, highlighted the importance of digital skills for Africa’s youth and the need for collective cooperation to develop these skills rapidly.
Fall noted the urgency of equipping Africa’s youthful population, projected to reach 830 million by 2050, with the skills needed to participate actively in the digital economy.
Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo, Director of Government Affairs Africa at Intel, emphasized the company’s commitment to making advanced technologies accessible and breaking down barriers related to geography, gender, and ethnicity.
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