Africa boasts numerous world-class institutions providing top-notch training and degrees for individuals seeking to launch a career in the technology sector.
These IT skills are in high demand by employers, offering lucrative potential. For example, an average mid-level software engineer can earn around $134,449 annually and has the option to choose remote, hybrid, or on-site work with reputable companies or startups.
What Constitutes IT Skills?
IT skills encompass the abilities required to utilize computers and other technological devices to execute various tasks. These include:
- Cloud computing
- Data analysis
- Software engineering
- Mobile application development
- DevOps
- Machine learning
- Artificial intelligence
- Robotics
- Network and security.
Top IT Schools in Africa
1. University of Cape Town, South Africa:
- Offers world-class IT training and development through various programs.
- Programs include Artificial Intelligence (MSc), Data Science (MSc), and Information Technology (MSc).
- Encourages students from non-IT backgrounds to explore IT programs.
- Provides 6-week online short courses in information technology.
2. NIIT-Nigeria:
- A digital skills development institute with a global presence.
- Trains individuals in Software Engineering, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, and more.
- Recognised as one of the best IT training institutes globally.
3. Higher School of Computing and Technologies of the Supdeco Group, Senegal:
- Offers IT programs such as Masters in Software Engineering and Masters in Network Systems and Security.
- Graduates are equipped to provide innovative solutions across various sectors.
4. ALTSchool Africa:
- An online-based skill training platform present in major African cities.
- Offers IT specializations including Software Engineering, Data Engineering and Analytics, Cloud Computing/Engineering, and UX Design.
5. Pretoria University, South Africa:
- Renowned for excellence in Information Technology, Software Engineering, and Computer Science.
- Offers degrees such as Master of Engineering in Software Engineering and Master’s in Information Technology (Big Data Science).
6. Cairo University, Egypt:
- Faculty of Computers and Artificial Intelligence provides quality training in AI and software engineering.
- Offers programs like Masters in Artificial Intelligence and Masters in Data Engineering.
7. ApTech, Nigeria:
- One of the best IT training institutes in Africa, offering distant/home learning.
- Provides training in NET, Networking, Java, Oracle, Mobile/Web Application Development, Cloud Computing, and Enterprise.
8. University of Mauritius:
- Offers dual master’s degrees in Cybersecurity with rigorous hands-on training.
- Programs include Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity and Forensics and Master’s in Cybersecurity and Pen Testing.
9. Institut Ucac – Icam, Cameroon:
Located in Yaoundé, Cameroon, it trains individuals in IT programs such as Software Engineering, Networks, Systems, and Security.
10. Mulungushi University (MU), Zambia:
- Tailored Master’s and Bachelor’s programs for cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, and AI consultants.
- Offers programs like Master of Information Technology and Master of Science in Cyber Security.
11. Ain Shams University, Egypt:
- Trains students to be experts in cybersecurity and machine learning through hands-on training and technical education.
- Internationally recognized for its specialized applications of standards in machine learning and cybersecurity fields.
12. University of Johannesburg, South Africa:
- Through its Masters of Information Technology program, offers courses in Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology Security, and Services Computing.
- Two-year training program to enable expertise in chosen specializations.
13. Covenant University, Nigeria:
- Focuses on solving digital challenges in society.
- Curriculum includes programming, artificial intelligence, computer networking, computer architecture, and electronic circuit design.
- Produces a significant number of successful software engineers annually.
14. ENSIT School of Computer Science Engineering, Ivory Coast:
- Engineering school located in Abidjan, training individuals in software engineering, business intelligence, and security.
- Receives support from international organizations such as UNESCO for providing top-notch IT training.
15. PIGIER-BÉNIN, Benin:
- Offers world-class IT education through a four-year program in networks and software engineering.
- Equips students to tackle real-world technical problems, with internships in the third year.
- Member of the prestigious LA COMPAGNIE DE FORMATION in France, fostering quality technical education.
16. Nelson Mandela University, South Africa:
- Offers a three-year diploma in software engineering.
- Provides training in cybersecurity, programming languages, and IoT through Nelson Mandela Cisco Academy.
17. Ivorian Institute of Technology, Ivory Coast:
- Located in the UNESCO world heritage site of Grand-Bassam, trains students in software development, network systems, and security.
- Offers scholarships to students who cannot afford tuition fees.
18. University of Witwatersrand, South Africa:
- Provides a bachelor’s degree in information engineering to meet students’ digital needs.
- Trains students in IT fields such as software engineering, telecommunications, and computer networking over a full-time 4-year program.
19. Essitech International, Burkina Faso:
- Trains students to become high-level professionals in software development, big data analytics, network security, and cloud computing.
- Emphasizes innovative design and production of software through collaboration with international and local companies.
20. PIDERC Specialization Institute (ISP), Cameroon:
- A private educational institute offering a professional license in Software Engineering (LPGL).
- Trains students in web development, network, multimedia, distributed systems, and cloud computing.
- High employability rate in Africa and worldwide.