In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the demand for proficient digital skills has never been more critical. Recognizing this imperative, MTN has launched the MTN Skills Academy, a transformative initiative aimed at equipping Africa's youth with the necessary tools to thrive in the digital economy.

Addressing the Digital Skills Gap in Africa

Africa faces a significant challenge: a burgeoning youth population coupled with a substantial digital skills deficit. With over 38 million young individuals in sub-Saharan Africa not engaged in education, employment, or training, the urgency to bridge this gap is paramount. The MTN Skills Academy is designed to tackle this issue head-on by providing accessible, high-quality digital education tailored to the continent's unique needs.

Key Features of the MTN Skills Academy

1. Diverse Course Offerings

The Academy offers a wide array of courses, catering to various interests and career paths:

• Leadership: Develop essential leadership qualities to navigate and lead in the digital age.
• Finance: Gain insights into financial management and digital financial services.
• Data Analytics: Learn to interpret complex data to inform strategic decisions.
• Artificial Intelligence: Explore the fundamentals and applications of AI in today's world.
• Creative Arts: Engage in courses like Video Editing, Content Creation, and Film Production, fostering creativity and technical proficiency.

These courses are delivered in partnership with esteemed institutions such as edX and Terrakulture Film Academy, ensuring world-class education standards.

2. Affordable and Accessible Learning

Understanding the financial constraints many learners face, the Academy offer starts from free courses and premium courses at competitive prices. For instance:

• Leadership Bundle: NGN19,000
• Finance Bundle: NGN13,000
• Creative Arts Courses: Starting at NGN3,000

Additionally, with a nominal fee of NGN200, users gain monthly access to the platform, making quality education attainable for a broader audience.

3. Personalized Career Guidance

Utilizing AI-driven tools, the platform provides personalized career paths, aligning courses with individual aspirations and market demands. This ensures that learners not only acquire skills but also receive guidance on how to apply them effectively in the workforce.

4. Job Placement Support

Beyond education, the Academy is committed to facilitating employment opportunities. Through optimized job matching services, learners are connected with potential employers, bridging the gap between skill acquisition and meaningful employment.

Collaborative Efforts Amplifying Impact

The success of the MTN Skills Academy is based on strategic partnerships:

• Government Collaborations: Working alongside national ministries, the Academy aligns its objectives with national development plans, ensuring relevance and support.
• Technology Partners: Collaborations with industry leaders like Huawei and American Tower Corporation enhance the platform's technological infrastructure and reach.
• Local Communities and NGOs: Engaging with grassroots organizations ensures the Academy addresses local challenges effectively, fostering community-driven growth.

A Pan-African Vision

Launched initially in Zambia, the MTN Skills Academy has ambitious plans to expand across the continent. With a target to empower over 1 million youths by 2025, upcoming deployments include Uganda, eSwatini, Cote d'Ivoire, and beyond. This continental approach underscores MTN's commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive Africa. The MTN Digital Skills Academy is currently available for participants from any of the following Countries:

1.  Benin
2.  Cameroon 
3.  Cote d'Ivoire
4.  Congo Brazzaville 
5.  eSwatini 
6.  Ghana 
7.  Nigeria 
8.  Rwanda
9.  South Africa
10.  Uganda
11.  Zambia

How to Enroll

1. To enroll, register Sign up for free with your email or phone number

2. Sellect your country 

3. Complete your profile and the career guidance questionnaire to discover more about possible career pathways

4. Explore to learn more about digital careers and many free digital and financial courses provided by partners.

To start your learning journey, visit the MTN Skills Academy at https://skillsacademy.mtn.com/