Microsoft launches AI skills programme to empower women in digital economy
Date: 2026-03-26
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Microsoft
has officially launched the AI Skills 4 Women programme in Kenya, a new
initiative aimed at equipping women with the knowledge and tools needed to
thrive in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
The
launch took place on the sidelines of the TECSummit 2026, in collaboration with
partners including Konza Technopolis, marking a significant step toward
addressing the gender gap in technology and innovation.
The
AI Skills 4 Women programme is a free online course designed to cater to
participants at all skill levels, offering training in key areas such as
artificial intelligence fundamentals, prompt engineering, cybersecurity, data
analytics, and leadership. The initiative is structured to provide a
comprehensive and practical learning pathway for women seeking to build or
advance careers in digital fields.
In
addition to the training, participants who successfully complete the final
challenge will have the opportunity to earn one of 150 scholarships for a
three-month AI and innovation programme delivered in partnership with Founderz
and Microsoft.
The
programme underscores Microsoft’s broader commitment to digital inclusion and
capacity building, particularly in empowering women to take active roles in
shaping the future of technology. It also aligns with ongoing efforts across
the region to strengthen digital skills and expand access to opportunities
within the technology ecosystem.
By
focusing on accessibility, practical skills development, and career
advancement, the initiative is expected to contribute to a more inclusive
digital workforce while supporting innovation and economic growth in Kenya and
beyond.
