Africa is a continent of extraordinary diversity and potential.

With a
population of over 1.4 billion people with the majority being youth, the
continent is home to some of the fastest-growing economies in the world and
is becoming more integrated into the global economy. Across the African
continent, we are witnessing an unprecedented wave of innovation and
disruption as technology is transforming every aspect of African society.
However, more can be done to leverage the benefits of digital technologies.
Africa has shown great potential and steady progress. Yet, it still faces
serious challenges including power supply issues; lack of quality
infrastructure; institutional failures that hinder the promotion of trade and
investment; food insecurity; urbanization; urban and rural poverty; and
socioeconomic inequality between urban and rural areas. Providing training
on Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) skills to the underrepresented, especially
women and youth, can lead to increased leveraging of digital technology
opportunities like the rest of the world. This can culminate in Africa becoming
leaders in the adoption of new innovative technologies, which can provide
solutions to some of the challenges faced by the continent. To this end, this
programme aims to enhance the employability and competitiveness of African
women and youth in the global workforce, readying them with 4IR and future
of work digital skills in a digital-driven world. Through partnership and
collaboration, the participants will be mentored along their journey to unlock
their potential and build sustainable ventures and businesses to improve the
economic health of their communities, people and the planet. This Programme
is made possible by the support of the Government and People of Japan.