Google has launched a free online learning hub aimed at expanding access to artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills across Africa, including South Africa.

Called Skilling Africa with Google, the new platform brings more than 15 training initiatives together in one place.

“Today, more than 90% of companies across the region report a critical deficit in AI-ready professionals,” the tech giant said on Monday.

“[The] new learning hub [is] designed to expand access to digital and AI skills, equipping three million people across the continent by 2030.”

Google said the initiative builds on its existing training programmes, which have already provided foundational digital training to more than seven million young Africans.

Free digital training at your fingertips

The hub gives learners access to a range of courses and programmes, including Google Career Certificates, Hustle Academy and Google Cloud Skills.

These cover everything from IT support, data analytics and cybersecurity to entrepreneurship and cloud technology.

Learners can also access bite-sized modules covering AI, career development and other technical skills.

Getting started requires a Google account, with one-click sign-in available. There is no need to download an app.

Google said the platform is entirely free and open to everyone, from students and entrepreneurs to developers and IT professionals.

AI learning platform adds African language support

The new hub has also been designed with connectivity challenges in mind.

Users can download lessons while connected to Wi-Fi and complete them offline. The platform is also optimised for low-bandwidth connections and entry-level smartphones.

Another feature is SCOUT (Smart Companion for Online Understanding and Training), an AI-powered study assistant.

It can answer questions, recommend next steps and tailor study schedules to individual learning goals.

According to BizCommunity, Google said it is also adding support for more African languages, with isiZulu and isiXhosa among the first planned additions.

English, Swahili and Arabic are currently available.

The platform launched across Africa on 2 November 2026, with Google positioning it as a way to help bridge the continent’s AI skills gap.