Absa, in partnership with Microsoft and Women in Tech, is expanding its ElevateHer AI Programme to nine additional African countries. The initiative, initially launched in South Africa, aims to equip women with AI skills for real-world applications and promote responsible AI adoption across the continent.

• The ElevateHer AI Programme has already reached over 10,000 learners in South Africa.
• The expansion leverages Absa’s pan-African footprint, Microsoft’s Elevate AI skilling platform, and Women in Tech’s community networks.
• Head of Strategy and Transformation – Technology, Africa Regions at Absa, Tamu Dutuma, emphasized that digital confidence is becoming as crucial as financial literacy.
• Microsoft has committed over $4 billion in cash and technology globally to support AI skills development.
• Melissa Slaymaker, Africa Regional Director at Women in Tech Global, noted that the programme helps close the gender gap in emerging technologies.