Microsoft has unveiled an ambitious initiative to train one million South Africans in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity by 2026. Announced by Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, the programme aims to equip individuals across business, government, and youth sectors with industry-recognised certifications, ensuring they can compete in the global digital economy.
This initiative builds on Microsoft’s existing digital skills development programmes in Africa, where it has already trained four million people over the past five years. The company has now set a new target of training 30 million Africans in digital skills over the next five years, further solidifying its commitment to technological empowermentacross the continent.
The training programme will focus on AI-driven technologies, cybersecurity best practices, and digital transformation, addressing the growing demand for tech-savvy professionals in South Africa and beyond. While Barnard did not disclose the investment figure, she emphasised the critical role of digital skills in shaping the workforce of the future.
LinkedIn Faces Legal Battle Over AI Data Usage
Meanwhile, Microsoft’s subsidiary LinkedIn is facing a class action lawsuit filed by Premium customers who claim that the platform shared their private messages with third parties to train AI models without consent. The lawsuit, filed in San Jose, California, alleges that LinkedIn quietly updated its privacy policy in September 2024 to allow data usage for AI training.
The plaintiffs argue that LinkedIn attempted to “cover its tracks”, violating customer privacy and its own data usage policies. The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for breach of contract and violations of California’s unfair competition law, along with $1,000 per person for violations of the federal Stored Communications Act.
In response, LinkedIn strongly denied the claims, stating that the lawsuit is “false and without merit.” The case emerges amid heightened scrutiny over data privacy and AI ethics, particularly as AI adoption accelerates across industries.
Microsoft’s Vision for Africa’s Digital Future
With AI and cybersecurity at the forefront of global digital transformation, Microsoft’s training initiative in South Africa represents a significant step towards bridging the skills gap. By investing in human capital and technology education, the company aims to drive innovation, boost employability, and enhance economic growth across the continent.
As the demand for AI professionals rises, this programme positions South Africans to harness the power of AI and cybersecurity, ensuring they are not left behind in the digital revolution.
Further Africa