The first cohort of fellows from the African Women Conference (AWC) Women and Girls Digital Tech Hub AI & Data Science Programme has graduated, marking a major step towards closing the continent’s digital gender gap.
The six-month virtual initiative—delivered in partnership with the Helpline Social Support Initiative (HSSI) and DataCamp Donates USA—was launched following resolutions at the 2024 Africa Women Conference in Zambia, where stakeholders highlighted the urgent need to expand tech opportunities for African women and girls.
At the graduation ceremony, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, Convener of the AWC and President of HSSI, hailed the event as “a celebration of courage, resilience, and the limitless potential of African women and girls in technology.”
Nine outstanding fellows from Algeria, Tanzania, Senegal, South Africa, Niger, Rwanda, Madagascar, Namibia, and Botswana completed the intensive Artificial Intelligence and Data Science programme, earning DataCamp’s globally recognised certifications.
According to programme data, nearly 3,500 applications were received from across Africa. After a rigorous selection process, 100 participants were onboarded, with approximately 40–50 advancing to the second phase. Nine ultimately completed the full track.
Graduates specialised in Associate AI Engineer for Data Science, Associate Data Scientist in Python, Associate Data Analyst in SQL, and Data Analyst in Power BI.
Testimonies from participants highlighted how the programme strengthened technical skills, boosted confidence, enhanced startups and careers, and empowered them to mentor others in their communities.
Dr. Ahmadu thanked DataCamp Donates for providing 100 free licences to support African women in tech, and commended HSSI and the implementation team for their dedication.
She urged graduates to use their knowledge to mentor younger girls and contribute to Africa’s growing digital economy, stating: “The era of waiting for space to be created for women is over. If there is no space for you, bring your own chair, and leave the door open for younger girls and women to follow.”
Organisers confirmed that preparations for Cohort Two are underway, with plans to expand access to AI, Data Science, and emerging technologies for more African women and girls.
The African Women Conference reaffirmed its commitment to digital inclusion, women’s empowerment, innovation, and sustainable development through strategic partnerships and technology-led initiatives.
