Google, in collaboration with HP, teams up with UpSkill Universe to introduce 'Skills for Business' for 10,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa.
In a significant move to boost the digital capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa, UpSkill Universe has launched the Skills for Business programme. This initiative, developed in partnership with Google and HP Inc., aims to equip 10,000 SMEs in Nigeria and South Africa with essential digital and business skills [1][2][3].
The programme is designed to help SMEs expand their customer reach, enhance operations, and build long-term business success. It offers hands-on training in critical digital areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital marketing, and e-commerce [1][2]. Participants will have access to HP LIFE, the HP Foundation’s free global online business skills platform, which is accessible in eight languages [4].
The Skills for Business programme is more than just a training course. It combines self-paced online modules with expert-led virtual workshops, providing action-oriented learning opportunities [1]. The practical tools and insights offered by the programme aim to help SMEs navigate rapidly changing customer behaviours and leverage new technologies [1]. Additionally, the programme is tailored to support productivity, attract more customers, and expand online business presence [1].
The programme prioritizes inclusivity, with at least 50% of participants expected to be women-owned businesses [1]. This initiative builds on UpSkill Universe’s previous Hustle Academy Business Bootcamp, which has supported over 15,000 SMEs across Africa since 2022 [1][2][4].
Michele Malejki, Global Head of Social Impact at HP Inc. and Executive Director of the HP Foundation, stated that the Skills for Business programme empowers entrepreneurs to access the future of work and accelerate digital equity [1]. Gori Yahaya, CEO of UpSkill Universe, added that the programme aims to equip businesses with practical insights, tools, and technologies including AI to grow, scale, and succeed [1].
Kristy Grant, Head of B2B & Brand Marketing at Google SSA, emphasized the importance of small businesses as a driving force for progress across Africa and the need for them to have access to the right skills and tools to grow [1]. Google is providing valuable expertise in digital strategy and growth tailored for small businesses [1].
HP has been working towards accelerating digital equity, aiming to provide access to technology and digital skills content that fosters opportunity and growth for 150 million people by 2030 [5]. The Skills for Business programme underscores how strategic partnerships can accelerate Africa's digital transformation and drive economic growth [6].
In conclusion, the Skills for Business programme offers a unique opportunity for SMEs in Nigeria and South Africa to modernize their skills, better adapt to the evolving digital marketplace, and enhance their economic growth opportunities. Small business owners and their teams will have access to over 30 hands-on training modules, covering key areas like leveraging AI for productivity, mastering digital marketing, and launching into e-commerce.
[1] UpSkill Universe Press Release, 2023. [2] Google Africa Blog, 2023. [3] HP Inc. Newsroom, 2023. [4] UpSkill Universe, 2023. [5] HP Foundation, 2023. [6] TechCrunch, 2023.
- The Skills for Business programme, launched by UpSkill Universe, aims to equip SMEs in Nigeria and South Africa with essential digital and business skills, including investing in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital marketing.
- The programme is designed to help SMEs expand their business by navigating rapidly changing customer behaviors, leveraging new technologies like AI, and increasing their online presence.
- Gori Yahaya, CEO of UpSkill Universe, stated that the programme offers practical tools, insights, and technologies like AI to help SMEs grow, scale, and succeed.
- Additionally, the programme emphasizes education and self-development for personal growth, providing participants with access to digital skills platforms like HP LIFE, offering learning opportunities in various languages.
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