Access Bank Partners with Udacity to Upskill Young Africans in Digital Technology

• Invites applications for its tech-driven scholarships

Launched in 2022 in partnership with Udacity to provide in-demand digital skills to young, vibrant African youth working to transform the continent’s economy through digital reform, Advance Africa has trained over 10,000 people through its programme paths, including Business Analytics, Data Science, Digital Marketing, Introduction to Programming, and Product Management.

Daniel Akumabor, Chief Information Officer, Subsidiaries, Access Bank PLC, expressed his excitement about the partnership thus: “We are thrilled to partner with Udacity to provide young Africans with access to world-class digital technology education.

“Access Bank has always been at the forefront of empowering African youth across societies with relevant skills to unleash their potential and prepare them for the future of work. “This initiative aligns with our upscaling commitment to youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and driving innovation across the continent. “With Advance Africa, we hope to empower youths by providing them with the skills needed to make necessary contributions to Africa’s economy and make a name in the world.”

Designed with robust curriculums, internship opportunities to work with leading experts on real-world projects, and a charitable scholarship scheme, Advance Africa has transformed the career trajectory of over 10,000 young Africans across Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Rwanda, Guinea, Zambia, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Mozambique, Cameroon, and Congo (DRC).

This year, the initiative has been extended to include young Africans in Botswana. Acting Managing Director of Access Bank Botswana, Musonda Chishimba added: “We are excited to be a part of this programme this year, and with Botswana’s gifted youth, this is an opportunity to broaden their horizons not only here but beyond our borders.”

Kai Roemmelt, CEO of Udacity stated: “Our aim is to amplify the reach and impact of the Advance Africa programme with a scholarship scheme that will cater to 2,000 beneficiaries over the entire scholarship period. “Through this tech initiative, we are confident that younger Africans will apply to the cohorts and acquire invaluable knowledge and skills.” Interested individuals between the ages of 20 and 30 are encouraged to apply through the Advance Africa website, www.advance-africa.org, for available programme paths.

Shortlisted candidates will undergo a selection process. Thereafter, successful applicants will embark on their learning journey, supported by a dedicated network of mentors and industry experts. Since its inception, the Advance Africa programme has given thousands of young professionals the competitive edge to thrive in the global corporate ecosystem, as well as an opportunity to work with Africa’s largest retail bank.