Airtel Africa Foundation DigiLeap Women in Tech Programme Trains 200 Young Women
The Airtel Africa Foundation DigiLeap Women in Tech Programme has officially commenced in Nigeria, equipping 200 young women from underserved communities with digital skills, mentorship and career opportunities in the technology sector. The initiative is being implemented by the Airtel Africa Foundation through Airtel Nigeria in partnership with the Ishk Tolaram Foundation, Co-Creation Hub (CcHub) and the SAIL Innovation Lab.
Hosted at the SAIL Innovation Lab in Ikorodu, Lagos, the 12-week programme runs from June to September 2026 and aims to prepare participants for careers in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
Airtel Africa Foundation DigiLeap Women in Tech Programme Builds Digital Skills
The Airtel Africa Foundation DigiLeap Women in Tech Programme offers intensive training in high-demand technology fields, including Product Design, Software Development, Digital Marketing and Data Analytics.
In addition to technical instruction, participants will complete hands-on projects, leadership training and structured mentorship sessions designed to strengthen both technical and professional skills.
Furthermore, the programme includes internship opportunities that expose participants to real workplace environments and industry best practices.
Participants Receive Mentorship and Career Support
A key component of the programme is direct mentorship from professionals at Airtel Nigeria.
Throughout the 12-week programme, Airtel employees will provide career guidance, industry insights and professional coaching to help participants transition successfully into technology careers.
The curriculum combines classroom learning with practical experience, ensuring participants graduate with both technical knowledge and workplace readiness.
Airtel Invests in Women’s Participation in Nigeria’s Digital Economy
Speaking at the programme launch, Segun Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, described investment in young women as one of the most sustainable ways to strengthen Africa’s digital future.
“We encourage every participant to approach this programme with purpose, discipline, and curiosity. The knowledge, networks, and mentorship you gain over the coming weeks have the potential to transform not only your own future but also the lives of your families, communities, and the next generation of girls who will look up to you.”
He added that the initiative reflects the Foundation’s commitment to expanding access to digital education while creating opportunities for young Africans to participate in the continent’s digital transformation.
DigiLeap Supports Inclusive Technology Growth
Also speaking at the launch, Dinesh Balsingh, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, said Nigeria’s digital economy can only reach its full potential if more women participate in it.
According to him, the programme equips participants with practical, industry-rerelevant skills while providing the confidence, mentorship and professional exposure needed to build successful careers in technology.
He noted that investing in women strengthens innovation, supports economic growth and contributes to building a more inclusive digital ecosystem.
Programme Advances Digital Inclusion in Nigeria
The Airtel Africa Foundation DigiLeap Women in Tech Programme forms part of the Foundation’s broader strategy to promote digital inclusion and youth empowerment across Africa.
By creating pathways for more women to access technology careers, the initiative supports Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda while helping develop a stronger pipeline of skilled professionals capable of driving innovation, entrepreneurship and long-term economic growth.
