Microsoft and Gebeya have partnered to launch Microsoft.Gebeya.com, a platform aimed at developing demanding digital skills among African youth and empowering them for careers in cloud computing. Through this partnership, the companies seek to upskill 300,000 developers in 8 African countries over 3 years, with a focus on cloud and AI skills to equip young people to build solutions on Microsoft Azure. Applications open in January 2024.
This builds on an existing partnership from 2020, when Microsoft and Gebeya launched Ethiopia’s first virtual SkillsLab, providing apprentice-style coding training to more than 1,200 software engineers. Gebeya now aims to scale its impact by partnering with Microsoft’s technical expertise and reach. As Gebeya’s CEO stated, this partnership represents a milestone in harnessing Africa’s talent potential through comprehensive upskilling and job creation.
For 30 years, Microsoft has helped build Africa’s digital capacity, upskilling over 4 million young people in the past 5 years. As Microsoft’s Africa Transformation Office GM commented, cultivating technology professionals is key to harnessing the continent’s innovation potential.
Through this partnership, the companies seek to address the global technology skills gap while establishing Africa as a hub for technology talent. Key points include:
Training 300,000 developers to build solutions on the Microsoft Cloud over 3 years, with 150,000 targeted in the first year. Gear developers with GitHub Copilot capability for faster coding with reduced errors. Microsoft provides platform development support, Azure credits, and marketing assistance.
Certifying 100,000 developers and connecting them with companies looking for their skills through the platform. Integrate Microsoft-certified professionals into the exclusive talent marketplace. Streamline recruitment through profile support and recruitment links.
Develop AI solutions on Azure to simplify access to opportunities. Using contextual search and building artificial intelligence to accurately match talent and provide insights to recruiters. Accelerate the transition from junior to mid-level and boost the efficiency of senior developers through AI.
Identifying and empowering talented engineers to embark on entrepreneurial journeys through practical skills, mindset and ecosystem exposure.
As Gebeya’s Chief Growth Officer stated, realizing the ambitious goals will require a collective effort across the ecosystem. But it represents a bold step towards empowering African youth with digital skills and cultivating world-class cloud talent on the continent.