New training initiative aims to equip 10,000 SMEs in South Africa and Nigeria with digital skills

The "Skills for Business" programme, launched by UpSkill Universe in partnership with Google and HP Inc., will offer practical digital and business training to support small business growth in South Africa and Nigeria.

Gori yahaya, CEO of UpSkill Universe. Portal ERP South Africa. 

UpSkill Universe has launched the ‘Skills for Business’ programme in collaboration with Google and HP Inc., aiming to support 10,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa and Nigeria through digital and business skills training.

The programme is designed to provide entrepreneurs with practical knowledge in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital marketing, and e-commerce. The initiative builds on the previous success of the Hustle Academy Business Bootcamp, which reached over 15,000 SMEs across Africa since 2022.

UpSkill Universe, which leads the delivery and management of the initiative, noted that the programme responds to the challenges many SMEs face as they adapt to evolving market demands, customer behavior, and technological changes.

Training will be delivered through virtual workshops led by Google and UpSkill Universe, as well as access to HP LIFE, HP Foundation’s free business skills platform. HP LIFE offers more than 30 online modules available in eight languages, focused on topics such as AI use in productivity, digital marketing fundamentals, and e-commerce readiness.

The initiative also prioritizes inclusive participation, with a goal of reaching at least 50% of women-owned businesses.

“Small businesses are a driving force across Africa, and it’s crucial to equip them with relevant tools to adapt and grow,” said Kristy Grant, Head of B2B & Brand Marketing for Google SSA. “This programme helps connect digital skills to real-world outcomes.”

The broader objective of the programme is to train 10,000 SMEs directly and reach another 59,000 individuals indirectly by the end of 2025, contributing to digital equity and economic participation in the region.

“Since 2021, HP has worked to accelerate digital equity globally. This partnership supports that mission by increasing access to learning and tools that help SMEs strengthen their operations,” said Michele Malejki, HP Inc.’s Global Head of Social Impact and Executive Director of the HP Foundation.