TheCable

The British Council, in collaboration with Microsoft, has launched an e-learning platform to provide opportunities for young Nigerian entrepreneurs in the creative economy sector.

In a statement issued on Monday, the British Council said the e-learning programme is part of its wider creative economy project aimed at helping to create stronger partnerships between countries in sub-Saharan Africa, to help develop an ecosystem in which young entrepreneurs can thrive.

The programme targets aspiring and early-stage young Nigerian entrepreneurs in creative industries like fashion, music, film and photography, who will get a chance to take free courses and gain mentorship that will support them through their business journey.

“The creative economy has the potential to provide livelihoods for a new generation of African entrepreneurs, whether building on cultural traditions or pursuing new ideas. It is one of Africa’s economy main drivers,” the statement reads.

“Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing a significant bulge in its youth population, which is expected to double to over 830 million by 2050. This growth will bring unprecedented opportunities for investment and innovation. 

“Entrepreneurship, currently booming in Africa, is likely to break new grounds with more entrepreneurial youth stepping up to shape the future of the continent. However, many young Africans lack the skills and training to develop their ideas into workable businesses and find it difficult to access support.

“The programme aims to empower young African entrepreneurs to take ownership of their livelihoods, focus the entrepreneurial enthusiasm of young Africans through a platform for self-learning, and build a new generation of creative entrepreneurs to boost the economies of African nations.”

Speaking on the project, Ojoma Ochai, regional director, arts and creative economy programmes, Sub Saharan Africa at the British Council, said: “It is crucial that we contribute to supporting the youth in this sector to acquire the skills they need to take ownership of their livelihoods and be in the driving seat of the development process of their continent.”

On his part, Moses Anibaba, regional director, Sub-Saharan Africa, British Council, said: “The British Council understands the importance of helping African youth contribute to the development of the continent and equipping them with the tools they need to boost their businesses.”

While speaking on the available opportunities, Ghada Khalifa, regional director of Microsoft Philanthropies for Middle East and Africa, said empowering up-and-coming entrepreneurs in the creative industries which were hard-hit by the pandemic will go a long way toward “future-proofing that vital part of the economy and culture of the continent”.

Persons who wish to participate in the programme can get more information and sign up here.