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Digital Skills, Innovation, and Economic Transformation: Opportunities and Challenges for Sub-Saharan Africa

Author

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  • Salmi, Jamil
  • Amegah, Alice
  • Shinde, Aarya Rajendra

Abstract

This study explores the link between digital skills, innovation, and economic transformation in the context of Africa, focusing on the role and potential contribution of higher education institutions in the development of advanced skills for the digital transition. It documents relevant global case studies from Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America that showcase good examples of investment in skills development through higher education and their impact on innovation and economic growth. The study investigates the evolving global demand for digital skills and explores how advanced digital skills can create new economic development opportunities for Africa and help solve the big challenges faced by the subcontinent, such as food security, health threats, learning poverty, and climate change. It takes stock of existing capacities for digital skills training in Sub-Saharan Africa and proposes a bold vision for improving and expanding digital skills education programs.

Suggested Citation

  • Salmi, Jamil & Amegah, Alice & Shinde, Aarya Rajendra, 2025. "Digital Skills, Innovation, and Economic Transformation: Opportunities and Challenges for Sub-Saharan Africa," Education Working Papers 203093, The World Bank.
    • Handle: RePEc:wbk:hdgewp:203093
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Monica Fisher & Violet Nyabaro & Ruth Mendum & Moses Osiru, 2020. "Making it to the PhD: Gender and student performance in sub-Saharan Africa," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 15(12), pages 1-19, December.
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