HP and UpSkill Universe Launch AI Training Initiative for 55,000 African SMEs

HP and UpSkill Universe have partnered to roll out a substantial AI skills program aimed at empowering 55,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Nigeria and South Africa. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap between growing AI awareness and practical application within African businesses, enabling them to leverage AI for growth and operational efficiency. The program offers free, quality training designed to help SMEs integrate AI into their daily operations, a critical step given that a recent study found nearly 70% of SMEs are in early stages of AI adoption.

The "AI Skills for Business Programme" builds on a successful previous collaboration that reached over 40,000 SMEs. It will utilize HP LIFE, HP Foundation's global training platform, to deliver self-paced courses, live virtual sessions, and an intensive bootcamp for high-performing participants. The curriculum is tailored to equip businesses with AI skills for areas such as reporting, decision-making, risk management, customer experience enhancement, and operational optimization.

A key focus of the program is inclusive growth, with priority access given to youth and women-led businesses, targeting 40% participation from these groups. Starting this month, 55,000 SMEs will begin foundational courses, with 5,000 progressing to facilitator-led sessions and 50 top performers attending a bootcamp that includes business audits, mentorship, and a 90-day AI action plan. HP employees will also serve as mentors, providing crucial guidance to bootcamp graduates.