• South Africa partners Google to offer 10,000 AI skills scholarships
• Program targets youth employment via training in digital fields
• Initiative responds to rising demand for AI skills in job market

South Africa's government this week entered into a partnership with Google to launch a 10,000-scholarship program focused on artificial intelligence and digital skills.

The initiative is led by the Department of Higher Education and Training and aims to improve young people’s job prospects as the labor market undergoes rapid transformation.

The program uses Google Career Certificates, which are online courses focused on practical skills covering AI, data analytics, cybersecurity and IT support. The content will be delivered through universities and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges, as well as CET centers, to students and job seekers.

"Digital and AI skills are vital for navigating the modern world and securing future employment opportunities. It is essential that our students, especially those in remote and township areas, are prepared for the job market after completing their studies and have the right skills, including for self-employment and entrepreneurship," said Mimmy Gondwe, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training.

The partnership comes as demand for AI-related skills grows sharply in South Africa. According to PwC's report "The Fearless Future: 2025 Global AI Jobs Barometer," the share of job postings requiring AI skills rose significantly between 2021 and 2024. The increase was particularly pronounced in two sectors: education, where the share climbed from 4.9% to 8.5%, and information and communication technology, which rose from 5.5% to 7.9%.

By focusing on skills directly applicable in the workplace, officials said they hope to improve employment outcomes while supporting the growth of the digital economy.

Adoni Conrad Quenum