Google has announced a major redesign of its Hustle Academy programme. The updated initiative is delivered in partnership with UpSkill Universe and targets individuals across Sub-Saharan Africa looking to build practical artificial intelligence (AI) skills.
Previously focused on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the Hustle Academy has trained over 18,000 businesses through bootcamp-style sessions covering business strategy, digital tools, leadership and AI.
The Hustle Academy is now open to students, employees and job seekers. The redesigned programme introduces a more flexible learning format that combines Short, 60-minute webinars for accessible, bite-sized learning and more immersive bootcamps for deeper, hands-on training.
The curriculum is focused on practical applications of AI in areas such as digital commerce, marketing, and growth strategy, with an emphasis on immediate, real-world use.
Gori Yahaya, Founder and CEO of UpSkill Universe, said the updated programme is designed to address a growing skills gap:
“The 2026 Hustle Academy is designed to close the AI skills gap with hands-on training that is short, focused, and immediately useful. AI is reshaping how businesses win and how careers are built across this continent.”
Applications Now Open
Applications for the 2026 Hustle Academy are now open, with interested participants able to apply through Google’s official platform on https://rsvp.withgoogle.com/events/hustle-academy.
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