Google Opens Applications for AI and Digital Skills Academy
Google Opens Applications for AI and Digital Skills Academy. Google has opened registrations for the 2026 edition of its Hustle Academy programme, offering free artificial intelligence and digital skills training to entrepreneurs, students, and small business owners across South Africa.
The programme forms part of Google’s broader effort to support digital skills development as businesses increasingly adopt AI technologies while facing ongoing shortages of technical expertise.
According to Google, the 2026 edition of Hustle Academy has been redesigned into shorter and more flexible learning sessions. The programme will include one day bootcamps and 60 minute webinars intended to make participation easier for entrepreneurs and students with limited time availability.
The company said the revised structure was developed in response to challenges that often prevent small business owners and graduates from participating in longer training programmes.
Siya Madikane, communications and public affairs manager at Google South Africa, said the programme was created with the realities facing entrepreneurs and students in mind.
Madikane said time constraints remain one of the biggest obstacles for individuals trying to balance business operations, studies, and skills development opportunities.
The training programme will include guidance on how businesses can use AI tools to automate marketing tasks, analyse customer behaviour, improve creative processes, and reduce administrative workloads.
Google referenced research from SAP indicating that 90% of African businesses report being negatively affected by shortages in AI related skills. The company also pointed to estimates suggesting generative AI could contribute up to 100 billion dollars annually to Africa’s economy.
In addition to AI focused learning, participants will have access to career certificates in areas including data analytics, user experience design, IT support, digital marketing, and artificial intelligence.
Google said the programme will be available to participants in South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria. The company added that no formal technology qualification is required to join the programme.
Previous editions of Hustle Academy have produced more than 20,000 alumni across the African continent, according to Google.
The latest edition continues the company’s focus on expanding access to digital and business skills training for emerging entrepreneurs and professionals navigating a technology driven economy.
Registrations for the 2026 programme are now open through Google’s official Hustle Academy platform.
Google said the updated programme structure aims to make AI and digital learning more accessible to participants seeking practical skills that can support business growth, career development, and participation in the evolving digital economy across Africa in coming years.
