Google unveils free offline AI learning hub for Nigerians

Google has launched a free digital learning platform enabling Nigerians to acquire Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital skills offline.

The initiative targets training three million Africans by 2030, with 250,000 learners expected to graduate by the end of 2026.

The Google Communications and Public Relations Manager, West Africa, Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, November 2, 2026.

Kola-Ogunlade quoted the Managing Director of Google Africa, Alex Okosi, as saying that Africa needed more people equipped to develop, use, and innovate with AI technologies.

Okosi said the continent has a significant opportunity to shape the future of AI through improved access to relevant digital skills.

Okosi stated that the initiative would expand access to digital education and enable more Africans to participate in the digital economy.

“The programme is aimed at equipping three million people with digital and AI skills by 2030, with an initial target of 250,000 graduates by the end of 2026,” he said.

Okosi said the initiative built on Google’s previous efforts, through which more than seven million young Africans had completed foundational digital training.

He explained that the platform, Skilling Africa with Google, brought together more than 15 training programmes covering various digital disciplines.

According to him, these include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analytics, digital marketing and small business development.

Okosi said the platform was designed to accommodate learners facing limited internet connectivity and expensive mobile data.

“Users can download lessons through Wi-Fi and subsequently access the learning materials offline without incurring additional mobile data costs,” Okosi noted.

He added that the platform worked on entry-level smartphones and laptops without requiring users to download a separate application.

The Google official stated that the learning hub incorporates Google’s Hustle Academy, which provides training for small business owners.

Okosi said it also features Google Career Certificates for individuals pursuing careers in data analytics, IT support, and cybersecurity.

Okosi said the platform also featured SCOUT, an artificial intelligence-powered study companion designed to support learners.

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He explained that SCOUT could clarify unfamiliar concepts, answer questions and help users organise their study schedules.

Learners can also monitor their progress and earn verifiable badges upon completing courses, which they can present to prospective employers or clients.

The platform currently supports English, Swahili and Arabic, while additional African languages, including Hausa, are being introduced.

Okosi said the initiative is free and open to students, job seekers, entrepreneurs, and developers across Africa.

Interested learners can access the platform via www.skillingafrica.withgoogle.com