Johannesburg, 29 May 2007
Microsoft is working with youth-centric organisation International Youth Foundation (IYF) to encourage employment and training in Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal and Tanzania.
The project is supported by a $1 million grant, as well as technology and training expertise from Microsoft.
This co-operation is part of Microsoft's "Unlimited Potential" strategy. The initiative is a long-term commitment to use technology, training and partnerships to transform education, foster local innovation, and enable jobs and opportunities, to sustain a continuous cycle of social and economic growth, explains a press release.
In Africa, there is a real need to focus on training and life-long skills, says Fernando de Sousa, the Unlimited Potential GM for Middle East and Africa.
Africa has a population of around 850 million people, with roughly 50% being under the age of 25, says De Sousa. The unemployment level among this demographic is around 30% to 35%. "This statistic is actually higher in Nigeria and Kenya. This is the demographic we are focused on.
"The project has kicked off in these four African countries, with plans to eventually cover up to 15 African countries," he says.
Microsoft and IYF have begun operations in Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal and Tanzania because of progressive government attitudes towards ICT development, he explains.
The project initially aims to train around 40 000 people, 70% of whom are expected to be gainfully employed.
The group is working with local partners in each country to create revenue support and recruitment prospects for the unemployed with the various local partners.
Share