OPPORTUNITY Announcement
Position Title: Learner – Reskilling Revolution Africa (RRA) Program Duty Station: Hybrid (Online + Community Learning Hubs across Africa) Duration: 6–12 months (with opportunities for ongoing engagement) Application Deadline: [Insert date]
About the Program
The Reskilling Revolution Africa (RRA) is a bold, continent‑wide initiative designed to empower young Africans with the skills, networks, and opportunities required to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital and green economy. Launched by the African Union (AU) and the International Association for Volunteer Effort (IAVE) at COP28, and implemented in partnership with IBM SkillsBuild and The Youth Café, RRA represents a new model of youth empowerment that combines volunteerism, digital learning, and entrepreneurship.
Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, with over 200 million youth. Yet, unemployment remains alarmingly high, particularly among young women, with many struggling to access decent jobs due to skills mismatches and barriers to entry. At the same time, the climate crisis is reshaping economies and societies, creating both challenges and opportunities. Young people are increasingly at the forefront of climate action, advocating for policy change and leading grassroots initiatives. RRA harnesses this energy by equipping youth with the competencies needed to contribute meaningfully to their communities while building pathways to employment and self‑employment.
The program is built on three interlinked components. First, it leverages volunteerism as a foundation for resilient communities, encouraging youth to engage in climate adaptation, upcycling, and social innovation projects. Second, it provides access to digital and green skills training through IBM’s SkillsBuild platform, offering over 1,000 courses in technology, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and workforce readiness. Learners earn internationally recognized micro‑credentials that strengthen their employability and open doors to new opportunities. Third, RRA supports youth in developing micro‑enterprises in the digital and circular economy, helping them transform skills into sustainable livelihoods.
The pilot phase in Nigeria, Ethiopia, and South Africa engaged over 30,000 learners, 65% of whom were female, surpassing targets and demonstrating the model’s scalability. Learners earned more than 2,000 micro‑credentials and applied their skills to real‑world projects, from digital marketing to entrepreneurship. Building on this success, Phase II will deepen impact in pilot countries and expand to new regions, including Kenya, ensuring representation across all five African sub‑regions.
By joining RRA, learners become part of a continental movement endorsed by the AU as a pillar of its Youth Development Plan. They gain access to cutting‑edge training, mentorship, and networks, while also contributing to climate solutions and community resilience. This is more than a training program—it is a revolution in how young Africans prepare for the future of work, combining employability with purpose, innovation, and impact.
Key Responsibilities
Learners selected for the program will be expected to:
Participate in structured training: Engage in hybrid learning pathways combining online modules and community‑based sessions. These cover digital literacy, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and professional readiness, ensuring participants acquire both technical and soft skills.
Earn micro‑credentials: Complete courses and assessments to obtain internationally recognized certifications from IBM SkillsBuild. These credentials enhance employability and serve as proof of competencies in the job market.
Engage in volunteer activities: Contribute to community projects such as climate adaptation, upcycling, and resilience building. Volunteerism provides practical experience, strengthens civic engagement, and allows learners to apply new skills in real contexts.
Develop micro‑enterprise opportunities: Receive support to design and launch small businesses in the digital and green economy. Training in digital marketing, circular economy practices, and smart agriculture will help learners create sustainable livelihoods.
Build networks and mentorship connections: Join peer communities of practice and connect with IBM mentors, facilitators, and corporate volunteers. These networks provide guidance, support, and opportunities for collaboration across Africa.
Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age requirement: Young women and men aged 18–35 years.
Priority for disadvantaged youth: Preference will be given to unemployed youth, those outside formal education systems, and individuals from marginalized communities.
Gender equity commitment: At least 50% of selected learners will be female, reflecting the program’s dedication to addressing gender disparities in employment and skills access.
Interest in digital and green skills: Applicants should demonstrate curiosity and motivation to learn about technology, sustainability, entrepreneurship, or community development. Prior experience is not required, but commitment to growth is essential.
Commitment to program participation: Learners must be willing to complete assigned learning pathways, actively engage in volunteer activities, and contribute to peer networks. Dedication and consistency are key to maximizing the program’s benefits.
Benefits
Joining the program offers a holistic package of opportunities. Learners gain free access to over 1,000 courses through IBM’s SkillsBuild platform, covering digital literacy, advanced technology, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and professional readiness. Upon completion, they earn internationally recognized micro‑credentials that strengthen their CVs and increase competitiveness in the job market.
Beyond technical training, learners engage in volunteer projects that provide practical experience and foster leadership, teamwork, and civic responsibility. For those with entrepreneurial ambitions, RRA provides support to develop micro‑enterprises, equipping them with skills in digital marketing, circular economy practices, and smart agriculture.
Finally, learners benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities, connecting with IBM professionals, corporate volunteers, and peers across Africa. These networks open doors to internships, jobs, and collaborations long after the program ends. In short, RRA offers a comprehensive pathway: skills, credentials, experience, and networks—all designed to help youth build careers, create opportunities, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application by registering online at:the form below
Applications must be received on on goin basis until the required target is reached. Early applications are encouraged as slots are limited.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Youth Café and its partners are committed to gender equality, inclusivity, and diversity. Women, persons with disabilities, and youth from marginalized communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Join the Reskilling Revolution.
Be the change. Build your future. Empower your community.