Google invests R49m to support AI skills development

GOOGLE has announced a R49 million funding through Google.org to support AI skills development, education, online safety and cybersecurity in South Africa.

- PHILIPPA LARKIN

Google said in a statement on Wednesday that the announcement was made at AI Expo Africa, the continent's largest business-focused artificial intelligence and smart technology event, which brings together thousands of enterprise buyers, suppliers and innovators each year.

The funding builds on Google's AI skilling work announced earlier this year and focuses on expanding the country's AI talent pipeline while strengthening community safety through support for leading nonprofit organisations and academic institutions.

Kabelo Makwane, the country director for Google South Africa, said the funding reflects a long-term commitment to supporting the country's digital transformation. "This is about building capacity where it matters most, in our classrooms, our communities and our innovation spaces," he said.