This archive report was first published on 12 July 2020.
Published on July 12, 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a significant shift in the way we work and interact with technology. Virtual meetings, online classes, and social gatherings have become the new norm, with many countries adopting digital solutions to mitigate the effects of the pandemic.
According to Gartner, the global research firm, the pandemic has accelerated digital adoption by five years, resulting in massive skill shifts. A survey by Gartner found that over 58% of the workforce has noted skill transformations since the onset of the pandemic.
As technology continues to advance, businesses must respond rapidly to the changing nature of work. In Africa, the continent has witnessed huge growth in ICT, with increased internet connectivity, digital capability, and innovation. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella noted that 'we've seen two years' worth of digital transformation in two months.'
Major stakeholders, including Microsoft, have partnered with local universities to create a modern intelligent edge and cloud curriculum unique to the continent. The Africa Development Centre (ADC) has provided opportunities for graduates to build a relevant and meaningful career in data science, artificial intelligence, and other fields.
As part of its efforts to accelerate digital skills, ADC is launching the Game of Learners programme, a virtual hackathon aimed at spurring innovation among university students across the country. The initiative is aimed at empowering students to develop solutions that can help address some of Africa's and global challenges.
Expanded access to digital skills is key in accelerating economic recovery, especially for people hardest hit by job losses. Microsoft's global skills initiative aims to bring more digital skills to 25 million people globally by the end of the year.
