Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, announced the initiative on Thursday after meetings held during the Education World Forum 2026 in London.

The Federal Government said it would fully fund 36,000 training licences in the programme’s first year, removing the cost barrier for participants.

Training will cover Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing and Software Engineering, while successful participants will earn certifications recognised by employers globally.

Alausa described the programme as one of the biggest government-backed digital skills investments in the country.

“On the sidelines of the Education World Forum 2026 in London, I signed a landmark partnership with @coursera to launch the Digital Training Academy (DTA), a major initiative designed to equip Nigerian youths with globally competitive digital skills.”

He added: “Through this programme, young Nigerians will receive world-class training in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Software Engineering and other high-demand digital fields, while earning globally recognised certifications valued by employers across the world.”

The minister said the programme supports President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places attention on youth development, innovation and workforce readiness.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda recognises that digital competency is no longer optional. It is foundational,” Alausa said.

“The Digital Training Academy is a direct investment in helping young Nigerians compete and lead in the global digital economy.”

According to the Ministry of Education, the programme will run in partnership with National Open University of Nigeria and Yaba College of Technology.

The government said NOUN would use its nationwide structure to give students across the country access to the programme, while YABATECH would provide technical support, facilitators and industry-focused mentorship.

“Access to training alone is not enough. What truly changes lives is completion, support and accountability,” Alausa stated.

Officials say the academy forms part of reforms introduced by the government to improve technical and vocational education.

In 2025, the Federal Government revised the Technical and Vocational Education Training curriculum, increasing the focus on practical learning with an 80:20 ratio in favour of hands-on training.

Nigeria also signed an agreement with China last year to strengthen vocational education through technical partnerships and practical training support.

The new academy arrives as demand for digital and AI-related skills increases globally. It also comes at a time when Nigeria faces high youth unemployment and underemployment, pushing more young people to seek technology-related careers and remote work opportunities.

The programme aims to train Nigerian youths in essential skills to drive digital economic growth and prepare them for leadership roles in the tech space.

This initiative, in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat and Intel Corporation, aims to prepare participants for emerging roles in technology and innovation.

The programme offers self-paced courses on AI fundamentals, ethical practices, tools, and real-world applications. Participants will also have opportunities to secure internships with Intel Corporation and ambassadorial roles, providing practical experience and global exposure.

Benefits

Participants stand to gain a variety of benefits, including:

• Master AI Fundamentals: Gain an in-depth understanding of AI concepts, ethics, and practical applications.

• Receive Professional Certification: Earn a certificate upon completion to enhance career prospects.

• Access Hands-On Learning: Work with AI tools and frameworks to develop innovative projects.

• Compete in National Events: Showcase their knowledge and skills in AI competitions.

• Secure Global Internships: Collaborate with Intel Corporation experts for real-world experience.

• Create Social Impact: Learn to design AI-driven solutions for societal challenges and sustainable development.

Eligibility

The programme is open to Nigerians from diverse educational and professional backgrounds, including students, youths, and civil servants. No prior knowledge of artificial intelligence is required to enrol, making it accessible to everyone.

How to Apply

Interested individuals can apply by visiting the programme’s official website. The application portal will remain open until 30 January 2025. Eligible youths are encouraged to seize this opportunity to acquire valuable skills for the future.

The Federal Government’s AI Academy is leveraging technology to ensure economic growth, job creation, and innovation, with the youths at the forefront.