The digital wave is expanding across Africa, and Huawei’s LEAP programme is at the forefront, acting as a foundation for young people to launch themselves into a future full of technological possibilities.

Launched in 2022 with the acronym standing for Leadership, Employability, Advancement, and Possibility, LEAP is more than just a training programme; it’s a comprehensive strategy to empower 150,000 young people in sub-Saharan Africa with the digital skills they need to thrive in the digital age over the next three years.

Building the Tech Talent Pipeline for Tomorrow

LEAP isn’t simply about teaching technical skills. It promotes a holistic approach, nurturing leadership qualities and igniting a passion for innovation within the next generation of African tech leaders.

Since its inception, the programme has surpassed initial expectations, already training over 120,000 individuals. This remarkable success highlights the critical need for such initiatives across Africa, where digital skills are rapidly becoming the cornerstone of employability and economic participation.

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Collaboration is the Fuel: Partnerships Drive Progress

At the 2024 LEAP Summit in Shanghai, Gao Xiang, president of Huawei sub-Saharan Africa, underscored the importance of collaboration in achieving their ambitious goals.

The programme strategically leverages the strengths of established initiatives like Seeds for the Future and the Huawei ICT Academy, programmes that have collectively trained millions around the world.

Here in Kenya, the DigiTruck initiative exemplifies this commitment to collaboration. This innovative mobile digital classroom brings training directly to remote areas, ensuring that even the most geographically disadvantaged youth have access to the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in the digital world.

A Learning Experience Tailored for Diverse Needs

The LEAP programme caters to a wide range of learners. Individuals can access opportunities through Huawei’s user-friendly website or by contacting local Huawei offices for specific programmes.

The programme collaborates with universities, government agencies, and industry partners to offer a comprehensive curriculum. This curriculum goes beyond just technical training, encompassing the development of essential soft skills and providing valuable internship opportunities.

This holistic approach ensures that graduates are well-rounded individuals prepared to hit the ground running in the dynamic digital workplace.

Celebrating Achievements: Shining a Light on Success Stories

The recent LEAP Summit in Shanghai wasn’t just about future plans; it was also a platform for celebrating achievements. Kenyan students who excelled in digital content creation under the Seeds for the Future programme were recognised for their outstanding work.

This exemplifies LEAP’s unwavering commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of innovation across Africa. Additionally, Dr. Beatrice Muganda, Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Higher Education, was acknowledged for her significant contributions within the academic field.

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A Vision for Inclusive Growth: Expanding Horizons for 150,000 Young Minds

Looking ahead, the LEAP programme seeks to significantly expand its reach, aiming to train an additional 150,000 young people by 2027.

This ambitious target aligns perfectly with the vision expressed by Dr. Amina Zawede, Uganda’s Chief Technology Officer, who called for increased investment in infrastructure development to fully maximise the potential of technology across the continent.

Collaboration is Key: Building a Sustainable Digital Ecosystem

As PS Beatrice Muganda emphasised during the LEAP summit, a comprehensive approach is essential for successful digital upskilling.

Collaboration between governments, educational institutions, and technology companies like Huawei is the cornerstone for developing a comprehensive digital ecosystem. By working together, we can ensure that no one is left behind as Africa embraces the exciting possibilities of the digital future.

The LEAP programme serves as a shining example of how public-private partnerships can empower young people and drive sustainable growth across Africa.

With continued collaboration and unwavering commitment, LEAP is set to bridge the digital divide and unlock a future full of boundless potential for African youth.

This programme is more than just a training initiative; it’s an investment in the future of Africa, a future where innovation thrives and young minds lead the way.