Microsoft and its partners will open a digital lab to empower underserved communities in South Africa’s North West Province with AI training.
According to a press release, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, a business of Cassava Technologies, teamed up with Microsoft and South Africa’s Department of Communications and Digital Technologies to launch a solar-powered mobile digital lab at the Royal Bafokeng Institute in Phokeng, North West Province.
This is a comprehensive initiative designed to advance South Africa’s digital transformation and ensure “no community is left behind,” per the release. It will assist underserved young people by providing training in digital literacy, including Microsoft 365, Teams, Copilot, and AI fluency, the release notes. Additionally, the lab will offer technical training, mentorship, professional development support, and opportunities to earn Microsoft certifications.
The initiative is already underway with participants enrolled in a three-month program.
“Digital inclusion must be practical, scalable, and sustainable if it is to create long-term economic impact. The success of our Mthatha Innovation Digital Skills Centre (ISDC) showed us that there is both immense demand and exceptional potential within underserved communities. The Mobile Digital Lab allows us to reach even more young people with meaningful digital learning opportunities. Through this partnership, we are empowering communities with intelligent technologies and skills that support participation in the modern economy,” explained Ziaad Suleman, senior vice president and chief executive officer of Cassava Technologies, South Africa and Botswana, in the press release.
Enki Pitsoe, CEO of the Royal Bafokeng Institute, said:
“The Royal Bafokeng Institute has always prioritized investment in people as a foundation for sustainable development. This Mobile Digital Lab brings world-class technology, connectivity, and learning opportunities directly into our community, helping young people build practical digital skills that can support long-term economic participation.”
The current cohort is focusing on the Microsoft Power Platform. Participants will earn certifications in Power Platform Fundamentals, Functional Consultant, and Developer, according to the press release.
