WeThinkCode_ Secures R36m Grant from Google.org to Boost AI Training in Africa
WeThinkCode_, a South African tech academy, has secured a R36 million ($2 million) grant from Google.org to enhance its AI training programs across South Africa and Kenya. Announced on June 12, 2025, this initiative aims to equip 12,000 learners from low-income, rural, and peri-urban communities with crucial AI skills, addressing the continent’s significant skills gap and fostering future career opportunities.
Addressing Africa’s AI Skills Gap
Africa’s tech sector is grappling with a notable deficit in AI skills, reportedly affecting nearly 90% of businesses due to innovation stifling and delays. WeThinkCode_ is stepping in to address this issue.
The academy offers tuition-free AI training specifically aimed at unemployed youth from low-income backgrounds. This initiative is expected to provide pathways into the increasingly vital field of software engineering.
“We are committed to equipping the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven economy,” said a representative from WeThinkCode_, emphasizing their mission to create accessible educational opportunities.
Training Streams and Target Groups
With the R36 million grant, WeThinkCode_ plans to implement two distinct training streams, each targeting 6,000 learners within the software engineering and non-tech sectors. This approach caters to a broad audience.
The first stream focuses on equipping budding software engineers with crucial AI programming skills, while the second stream helps students in diverse fields like education and healthcare to leverage AI in their daily tasks.
“Our goal is to empower students from varied backgrounds, making AI education accessible to all,” noted an official at WeThinkCode_, highlighting the academy’s commitment to inclusivity in tech training.
In conclusion, WeThinkCode_’s R36m grant from Google.org represents a transformative opportunity for thousands of young South Africans and Kenyans, addressing the urgent need for AI skills and fostering economic empowerment through inclusive education in underserved communities.
This initiative not only trains a diverse group of learners but also strengthens the tech ecosystem, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to thrive in an increasingly digital economy, ultimately contributing to innovation and growth across Africa.
By offering accessible AI training tailored to both tech and non-tech careers, WeThinkCode_ is paving the way for a more inclusive future, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has the chance to succeed in the evolving job market.
As we move forward, the collaboration between WeThinkCode_ and industry partners will be crucial in bridging the skills gap, enabling participants to translate their newly acquired AI competencies into real-world impact.
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