UpSkill Universe Launches ‘Skills for Business’ to Empower 10,000 SMEs in Africa 

UpSkill Universe, a leading digital skills training provider, has just announced the launch of its new Skills for Business programme to empower SMEs in Africa. This initiative is set to make a big difference for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Nigeria and South Africa. The main goal is to empower 10,000 SMEs with important digital and business skills that are needed to succeed in today’s fast-changing world.

The programme was unveiled in London and is a result of a strong partnership between UpSkill Universe, HP Inc., and Google. These companies are joining forces to help African entrepreneurs get the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in the digital economy. By working together, they hope to drive economic growth and digital transformation across Africa.

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Small businesses are the backbone of Africa’s economy. They provide almost 80% of jobs on the continent. However, many SMEs struggle because they don’t have enough access to digital skills or the latest technology. This makes it hard for them to compete and grow. UpSkill launches ‘Skills for Business’ to empower SMEs in Africa by offering training that is practical and easy to use. The programme focuses on important topics like artificial intelligence (AI), digital marketing, and e-commerce, skills that are becoming more and more important for business success.

The Skills for Business programme builds on the achievements of Google’s Hustle Academy Business Bootcamp, which has already helped more than 15,000 SMEs across Africa since 2022. Now, with the help of HP LIFE (the HP Foundation’s free global business skills platform), participants will have access to over 30 training modules. These are available online, through a mobile app, and even offline, making it easier for everyone to join, no matter where they are or what technology they have access to.

Gori Yahaya, the CEO of UpSkill Universe, explained why this programme is so important: “Entrepreneurs and business owners throughout Africa are already leading change within their communities. We understand the challenges SMEs face as they navigate a difficult business landscape, the prevalence of AI, and rapidly changing customer behaviour. Through collaboration with HP Inc. and Google, we see an immense opportunity to empower businesses with the practical tips, tools, and technology, including AI, they need to grow, scale, and succeed”.

The partnership brings together the strengths of all three companies. UpSkill Universe is known for its scalable digital training, Google is an expert in digital growth strategies, and HP Inc. is committed to digital equity through its HP LIFE platform. The programme includes hands-on modules and virtual workshops led by experts. These sessions focus on real-world skills, such as using AI to boost productivity, mastering digital marketing, and starting up e-commerce businesses. The aim is to help SMEs run better, attract more customers, and grow their online presence.

Google’s involvement highlights its ongoing support for digital transformation in Africa. Kristy Grant, Google SSA’s Head of B2B & Brand Marketing, said, “Small businesses are a driving force for progress across Africa and beyond. It’s more critical than ever to help them access the skills and tools they need to grow, especially as digital technologies transform business operations.” Google’s Hustle Academy will add even more value to the programme with live training, mentorship, and masterclasses.

HP Inc. is also bringing its global mission to the table, aiming to help 150 million people achieve digital equity by 2030. Michele Malejki, Global Head of Social Impact at HP Inc., said, “When small businesses thrive, entire communities thrive with them. The programme is about empowering entrepreneurs to access the future of work”.

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A big part of the Skills for Business programme is its focus on inclusivity. At least 50% of participants are expected to be women-owned businesses. This is important because women in Africa often face extra challenges when it comes to getting training and resources. The programme aims to directly train 10,000 SMEs and indirectly impact another 59,000 people by the end of 2025. This ripple effect should help local economies, create jobs, and spark new ideas.

UpSkill launches ‘Skills for Business’ to empower 10,000 SMEs in Africa at a time when digital skills are more important than ever. According to the World Economic Forum, 43% of business tasks could be automated by 2027, so learning new skills is key to staying competitive. In places like South Africa and Nigeria, where digital literacy is still growing, this programme could help close the gap and support the region’s digital transformation.

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