Following a successful pilot in South Africa, Absa, in partnership with Microsoft Elevate and Women in Tech (WiT), has announced the expansion of the ElevateHer AI Programme across nine additional African markets. This strategic scaling aims to bridge the digital divide and empower women with the skills necessary to lead in the global AI economy.
The expansion aligns with urgent global calls, recently emphasized at the World Economic Forum in Davos, to close the AI skills gap in the Global South. By leveraging Absa’s extensive pan-African footprint and Microsoft’s advanced skilling platforms, the initiative provides women with practical, job-relevant training in artificial intelligence.
The programme focuses on employability, entrepreneurship, and economic participation. Participants gain hands-on experience with tools like Microsoft Copilot, learning to generate ideas, automate reports, and apply AI responsibly to streamline daily tasks.
“Digital confidence is becoming just as important as financial literacy, and it can transform how people work and lead,” said Tamu Dutuma, Head of Strategy and Transformation – Technology, Africa Regions at Absa.
“This partnership allows us to equip our employees and communities across the continent with the AI skills they need to thrive. Diversity and inclusion remain core to Absa’s purpose, and programmes like ElevateHer help ensure that no one is left behind as technology advances.”
Since its launch in South Africa in late 2025, the Absa ElevateHer AI programme has already reached over 10,000 learners. Participants who complete the course receive Microsoft badges, a digital credential that validates their new skills for potential employers.
Microsoft’s commitment to the initiative is part of a broader $4 billion pledge toward technology and skilling, with a goal of credentialing 20 million learners globally by 2027. Tiara Pathon, AI Skills Director for Microsoft Elevate at Microsoft South Africa, noted that building skills at scale is essential for inclusive growth.
“By equipping women across Africa with practical, job-relevant AI skills, we are strengthening the continent’s participation in the digital economy and its role in shaping the future of work,” Pathon said.
Women in Tech, which aims to empower five million women and girls in STEAM by 2030, views the expansion as a vital tool for fostering leadership. Melissa Slaymaker, Africa Regional Director for Women in Tech Global, highlighted the program’s role in removing barriers to entry.
“Many women are eager to engage with AI but don’t always know where to start. ElevateHer AI gives participants the practical skills and confidence to use AI in their work, studies, and businesses,” Slaymaker said.
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