HP and UpSkill Universe have launched a new free training programme aimed at helping 55,000 small and medium-sized businesses across Nigeria and South Africa build practical artificial intelligence skills.
The AI Skills for Business Programme, announced in Lagos on September 3, 2026, is designed to move business owners beyond simply understanding AI to using the technology in their everyday operations.
The initiative builds on an earlier partnership between HP and UpSkill Universe that reached more than 40,000 African SMEs with digital skills training. The new programme expands that effort with a specific focus on AI.
From AI awareness to practical use
While interest in AI among businesses is growing, many SMEs are still at the early stages of adoption.
According to research cited by the programme, nearly 70% of SMEs remain in the early stages of AI adoption, while only about 9% have integrated AI into their business operations.
The new programme is structured to help close that gap through three levels of training and support.
55,000 SMEs to start with HP LIFE
All 55,000 participating businesses will begin on HP LIFE, HP Foundation’s free online training platform.
Participants will complete at least three self-paced courses focused on AI, giving them an opportunity to understand how the technology can be applied to practical business challenges.
From there, 5,000 participants will progress to live 90-minute virtual sessions led by facilitators.
The sessions will focus on real business problems, with each participant expected to identify an AI tool to test within their business over a 30-day period.
50 businesses to receive intensive support
The programme’s final stage will select the top 50 performers for the Build Your Business with AI Bootcamp.
Selected participants will receive business audits, one-on-one mentorship from HP employees and a 90-day action plan for implementing AI within their businesses.
The first bootcamp is scheduled for January 2027, with the programme targeting at least one AI-driven process implemented by each graduate.
Youth and women-led businesses will also receive priority access, with the organisers targeting 40% participation from these groups.
Turning AI into a business tool
Gori Yahaya, Founder and CEO of UpSkill Universe, said the programme is intended to move beyond simply reaching business owners by giving them practical skills they can immediately apply.
HP’s Yesh Surjoodeen, Managing Director for Southern and Central Africa, also highlighted the importance of combining technology with practical skills and confidence.
For SMEs across Nigeria and South Africa, the initiative provides a structured pathway to explore AI for everyday areas such as customer service, productivity and business operations.
The programme ultimately aims to make small businesses active participants in Africa’s growing AI economy rather than simply observers of the technology’s rise.
