The global demand for Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills is exploding, with a LinkedIn “Future of Work” Report (2025) indicating a 38% surge in AI-related job postings between 2020 and 2024. This rapid growth presents a significant hurdle for developing economies in Africa, potentially leaving them behind. However, institutions like OPIT (Open Institute of Technology) are proactively addressing this challenge by providing accessible and affordable AI education to African professionals. OPIT’s efforts are empowering African talent to become leaders in the field of Artificial Intelligence, fostering innovation and driving economic growth across the continent. This commitment aligns seamlessly with the African Union’s Continental AI Strategy, which emphasizes inclusive, development-oriented AI advancements.

Consider Watson Ndethi, a Nairobi-based IT professional who enrolled in OPIT’s Master of Science (MSc) in Responsible Artificial Intelligence program. His experience exemplifies how OPIT is enabling African professionals to advance their careers while balancing work and education. As Ndethi noted, ‘’OPIT’s blended model combines optional weekly live sessions with expertly curated asynchronous study materials, allowing you to fit a high-quality, accredited graduate program into your already demanding work schedule. This approach provides a valuable option for working professionals.’’

The need for AI expertise extends far beyond traditional tech roles. Professionals in fields like HR, project management, design, and consulting are increasingly required to have AI proficiency. Africa is committed to keeping pace with the global AI revolution. The African Union’s Continental AI Strategy underscores the importance of developing AI talent and infrastructure. Leading African nations are already leveraging AI to improve healthcare, agriculture, education, and tackle the pressing challenges of climate change.

The African Union’s Continental AI Strategy prioritizes accelerating AI capabilities within its member states, with a particular focus on infrastructure, AI talent, and research. This ambition necessitates expanding the capacity of local training and educational institutions to cultivate the next generation of AI experts, ensuring that Africa remains at the forefront of technological advancement.

OPIT, a European-accredited online institution, is playing a pivotal role in this transformation. By providing access to world-class training in AI, Data Science, Computer Science, Digital Business, and Cybersecurity, OPIT is empowering African professionals with the skills they need to succeed. OPIT offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees to African students at affordable rates, enabling them to access quality international education from their home countries. This flexible approach allows professionals to advance their education without disrupting their careers, making it an ideal option for those seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Riccardo Ocleppo, Entrepreneur and Founder of OPIT, emphasizes the institution’s commitment to meeting Africa’s tech skills demand. “From the beginning, our mission has been to offer a curriculum that meets the world’s most urgent demand in tech skills by focusing on their applications in the real world,” he says. “With a faculty of 45 international professors, we offer affordable, high-quality education in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Data Science, Digital Business and Cybersecurity. While our programs serve professionals across Europe, North America, and the world – OPIT students come from 78 countries – we’re especially proud to support fast-growing tech ecosystems in Africa.” OPIT’s programs are meticulously designed to be relevant and applicable to real-world challenges, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to contribute to their respective fields.

OPIT welcomes students from innovation hubs across Africa, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, Egypt, and Rwanda, fostering a vibrant and diverse learning community.

OPIT held its first graduation in March, celebrating the success of 40 graduates from six continents who completed the MSc in Applied Data Science and Artificial Intelligence program. These graduates are now equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive innovation in various industries, making a tangible impact on the global landscape.

OPIT is playing a crucial role in empowering African professionals to become leaders in the AI revolution. By providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality online education, OPIT is bridging the AI skills gap and fostering innovation across the continent. With a growing number of African students enrolling in OPIT’s programs, the future of AI in Africa looks bright. As Riccardo Ocleppo stated, OPIT is committed to supporting the fast-growing tech ecosystems in Africa, ensuring that African professionals have the skills they need to thrive in the age of Artificial Intelligence.