DeepTech_Ready: A New Upskilling Program For Nigerians

Nigeria, a nation experiencing rapid economic growth, faces a critical challenge: a shortage of skilled workers. To address this, the Nigerian government has launched DeepTech_Ready, an ambitious upskilling program designed to train 20,000 young Nigerians in the fields of data science and artificial intelligence (AI).

This initiative, supported by Google.org with a $1,88 million (N2.8 billion) grant that was announced last October, is a cornerstone of Google.org’s broader $5.8 million investment aimed at accelerating Africa’s digital transformation. DeepTech_Ready aligns with a larger national effort to foster AI talent within the country.

The program, delivered by a consortium of leading Nigerian universities and technology companies, will provide a comprehensive curriculum encompassing both theoretical and practical skills. Participants will gain hands-on experience by working on real-world projects in collaboration with industry partners, while also receiving mentorship from seasoned data scientists and AI experts.

This collaborative approach will not only equip participants with in-demand skills crucial for success in the digital economy but also foster a valuable professional network among aspiring professionals in the field.

DeepTech_Ready is open to all Nigerians between the ages of 18 and 35 and will operate on a competitive application basis. This free program is expected to play a critical role in meeting the surging demand for data scientists and AI experts, anticipated to grow by 30 percent within the next five years. By empowering young Nigerians with the skills to develop new technologies, DeepTech_Ready will not only create new jobs but also significantly boost the nation’s innovation ecosystem. This presents a unique and exciting opportunity for young Nigerians to acquire the skills necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.