Binance, a leading cryptocurrency exchange platform, has joined forces with AltSchool Africa, a tech-focused education and talent development company, to provide scholarships for 500 young Africans. The partnership, announced in a statement reviewed by Technext, seeks to bridge Africa’s digital skills gap by offering fully funded tuition for specialized training.
Focus on Building In-Demand Digital Expertise
The initiative aims to equip participants with critical digital skills in areas such as software engineering, cybersecurity, content creation, and sales. The scholarship program will begin in January 2025 and run through the end of the year.
Recipients will gain access to AltSchool Africa’s structured programs, which focus on practical, industry-relevant training, mentorship, and career support. The goal is to prepare African youth for global opportunities in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Empowering Africa’s Future Workforce
Samantha Fuller, Binance’s spokeswoman, emphasized the importance of investing in digital education to drive progress across the continent.
“Through this collaboration, we are excited to offer opportunities that will shape the future of young students across Africa. Technology is a catalyst for change, and by supporting education, we are building a stronger foundation for Africa’s future. We aim to empower students to become innovators and leaders in the tech sector,” she stated.
Bridging the Digital Skills Gap
The program addresses a critical challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, where, according to the International Finance Corporation (IFC), 230 million jobs will require digital skills by 2030. However, only 2% of the workforce currently possesses such expertise.
By providing scholarships, Binance and AltSchool Africa aim to narrow this gap and ensure African talent is ready for the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Nifemi Akinwamide, AltSchool Africa’s Head of Global Operations, noted how the partnership aligns with the organization’s mission to empower African youth.
“This collaboration enables us to reach more young Africans eager to build careers in the digital economy. Through our diploma programs and short courses, we can equip them with the skills they need. We commend Binance for this impactful initiative that will transform lives across the continent,” Akinwamide said.
A Broader Commitment to Education and Inclusion
Binance views the scholarship initiative as part of its larger strategy to promote inclusive education across Africa. The company aims to harness its platform and resources to foster a more inclusive digital economy, helping young Africans access global opportunities in technology-driven industries.
AltSchool Africa’s recent expansion into Europe underscores its broader vision to address tech talent shortages worldwide. Co-founder and CEO Adewale Yusuf highlighted the need to align businesses struggling with talent acquisition with individuals eager to upskill for future roles.
“Our expansion into Europe is about offering solutions to unique regional challenges in tech talent acquisition. This aligns with our broader mission to develop skilled professionals equipped for tomorrow’s opportunities,” Yusuf explained.
Shaping Africa’s Role in the Global Digital Economy
With technology reshaping industries, the partnership between Binance and AltSchool Africa is set to provide African youth with a competitive edge in the global job market. As the demand for skilled talent grows, the initiative promises to empower the next generation of digital innovators and leaders.
