Nairobi/Milan – As the world races ahead in artificial intelligence (AI) innovation, Africa is stepping up to ensure it is not left behind.
According to LinkedIn’s 2025 Future of Work Report, AI and AI-related job postings grew by 38% between 2020 and 2024, cementing the sector as one of the fastest-growing globally.
AI competencies are now essential not only for data scientists and programmers, but also for professionals in cybersecurity, cloud computing, HR, design, project management, and more.
Amid this rapid growth, the African Union (AU) has outlined a bold, people-centric vision through its Continental AI Strategy. A key focus of the strategy is boosting the capabilities of member states in infrastructure, data, and — most critically — skills and talent development.
Helping bridge this talent gap is OPIT — the Open Institute of Technology — a European-accredited, fully online university with a global footprint. Since 2023, OPIT has welcomed students from across Africa, offering affordable access to internationally recognized degrees in:
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Computer Science
• Digital Business
• Cybersecurity
“We’re building a curriculum that responds to the world’s most urgent need for tech talent,” says Riccardo Ocleppo, OPIT Founder and Entrepreneur, speaking from Milan. “With a faculty of 45 international professors, OPIT combines affordability, flexibility, and academic rigor. While our students come from 78 countries, we are especially proud to support Africa’s fast-growing tech ecosystems.”
OPIT’s mission aligns well with the AU’s push for inclusive digital growth. Its online structure allows students to earn prestigious degrees while remaining in their home countries, continuing to contribute to their local economies and careers.
Watson Ndethi, a Nairobi-based IT engineer with over a decade of experience, joined OPIT’s MSc in Responsible Artificial Intelligence in September 2024. He shares his experience:
“OPIT’s blended model—featuring weekly live sessions and expertly designed self-paced materials—makes it possible to fit a high-quality, accredited graduate program into a busy work schedule. It’s a valuable option for working professionals across Africa.”
And Watson is not alone. A growing number of African professionals are enrolling in OPIT’s programs, benefiting from the flexibility and depth they offer. In March 2025, OPIT celebrated its first graduation ceremony, with 40 students from six continents completing the flagship MSc in Applied Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.
Headquartered in Malta, OPIT is redefining tech education with its practical, industry-focused approach. Students participate in interactive online lessons, masterclasses, quizzes, and exercises, with access to 24/7 tutoring and tailored support. With over 300 students currently enrolled, OPIT is steadily building a global community of job-ready tech professionals.
As demand for AI talent continues to rise across Africa, institutions like OPIT are not just providing education—they’re shaping the continent’s future tech leaders.
