Empowering 50,000 Students Annually: Togo Sets Bold Digital Skills Target

The Ministry of Digital Economy and Digital Transformation  and the Ministry of Higher Education and Research , in collaboration with Kira Learning,  announce the official launch of an initiative to train students in Togolese public universities in computer programming, artificial intelligence (AI) and English. This program is part of the national digital transformation strategy, which aims to make Togo a major technological hub in West Africa.

Kira Learning is a startup founded by alumni of Stanford University, one of the world’s cradles of technological innovation. Their ambition is simple but powerful: to make learning artificial intelligence and programming accessible to everyone, everywhere. By combining cutting-edge pedagogy, artificial intelligence and digital accessibility, Kira Learning designs interactive training programs that have already won over many educational institutions in the United States, Brazil, and Asia.

“This project embodies our commitment to providing our students with the skills they need to succeed in the digital age. By investing in programming and AI education, we are investing in the future of our nation.”

– Cina Lawson, Minister of Digital Economy and Digital Transformation, Togo

“This partnership with Kira Learning and the universities of Lomé and Kara is a decisive step to improve the quality of higher education in Togo. We are creating unprecedented opportunities for our students.”

– Kanka-Malik Natchaba, Minister of Higher Education and Research, Togo

The goal is to start by training 15,000 students by 2025, and 50,000 students each year. This program, free and accessible online, combines interactive lessons, explanatory videos and practical exercises, supported by an AI tutor capable of offering personalized support.

The training covers three complementary components: programming with Python, introduction to artificial intelligence, and practical digital English skills. A joint certificate of achievement from the universities and Kira Learning will be issued at the end of the course. The best students will be able to obtain an international certification issued by DeepLearning.AI.

“This collaboration represents a major step forward in providing our students with a world-class education. We equip them with the necessary skills to excel in the digital economy.”

– Prof. Adama Kpodar, President of the University, Lomé

Computer programming and AI are no longer just for specialists: they are becoming fundamental skills for all disciplines.

“This partnership opens a new era of educational innovation at Kara University. Together, we ensure that our students have access to world-class programming and AI training.”

– Prof. Kokou Tcharie, President, Kara University

The training opens the way to concrete professional opportunities, including for students from outside the scientific background. In three months, a student in literature or humanities will be able to apply for positions as an IT support technician, digital project assistant, beginner webmaster, content moderator, or data annotator for AI.

This project reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive and equitable education, with content adapted to local realities, in partnership with Togolese universities.

“We are honored to collaborate with the Togolese Republic to train a new generation of digital leaders. Our AI platform will support students on their journey to excellence.”

– Andrea Pasinetti, CEO, Kira Learning