The technology industry in Africa is experiencing rapid growth, with a notable increase in the digital workforce. However, alongside the swift evolution of software skills, there is a troubling decline in talent focused on digital infrastructure. This pressing issue took center stage at the recent Hyperscalers Convergence Africa conference, hosted by Africa Hyperscalers Media. A panel discussion, themed “The Talent Gap – Developing Sustainable Digital Talent for Africa,” featured industry veterans such as Olusola Teniola, Wale Owoeye, Adewale Adeyemi, Dr. Hakeem Onasanya, and Olusegun Maleghemi, who shared their insights on the challenges facing the sector.

Olusola Teniola, Director of Strategic Business Initiatives at ipNX, highlighted the complexities in attracting digital talent, noting that many individuals are drawn to the more glamorous software side of the industry. He emphasized the challenges associated with understanding large, intricate systems that encompass both hardware and software, stating that proficiency in both areas significantly enhances an individual’s market value. While tools for software development are widely available, Teniola pointed out that much of the hardware knowledge is acquired on the job, as formal curricula for critical topics such as digital infrastructure and data centers are lacking. He also stressed that traditional subjects continue to dominate African academic programs, which leaves new graduates unprepared for industry demands.

Dr. Hakeem Onasanya, Head of Startups at Lagos Innovates, Lagos State Employment Trust Fund echoed these sentiments, discussing the low barrier to entry in software development, which often requires only a laptop. He called on the government to take responsibility for educational reform, noting that many banks are establishing their own training programs, raising concerns about the efficacy of traditional university education. He stressed that hiring graduates only to subject them to extensive training undermines the value of their degrees, creating a disconnect between academia and industry.

Dr. Onasanya emphasized the widening disconnect between academia and industry, noting that this issue has become increasingly complex over the years. He illustrated this disparity by comparing it to a top Motorola phone technician training students to make Motorola phones; such training may not translate to proficiency in the current market, where iPhones dominate.

Onasanya urged for proactive solutions, suggesting that partnerships between universities and the private sector could provide students with real industry experiences. He highlighted the need for alumni contributions to fund education, citing examples from institutions like Stanford, where alumni support is robust. “It is clear that the government cannot fund tertiary institutions as needed. Some suggest that the government should step back and allow private entities to manage these institutions while providing student loans for those in need. However, meaningful change requires proactive steps,” he said.

He called for an acknowledgment of the government’s shortcomings and a push for private institutions to foster industry connections, which could help bridge the gap between education and employment. He calls on the government to recognize that the existing gap in education stems from insufficient investment in tertiary education and to incentivize the private sector to engage in meaningful partnerships and trainings, in exchange for waivers.

Citing examples like Nord, Nigerian auto manufacturer’s partnership with the University of Lagos, he illustrates how private institutions can provide students in fields like automobile engineering with invaluable exposure, further encouraging collaborations that benefit both students and the industry.

Adewale Adeyemi, Head of Business Development at Tek Experts, underscored the urgent need to update educational curricula to reflect rapid technological advancements. He noted a decline in coaching within organizations, with many companies believing that training leads to turnover. Adeyemi advocated for continued investment in talent development, asserting that this is crucial for creating scalable solutions. He stressed that today’s youth desire quick access to knowledge, and urged for organizations to create environments that facilitate this access, enabling individuals to leverage their skills for both personal and organizational success.

Wale Owoeye, CEO of Cedarview Communications, further emphasized the gaps between academia and industry, using the analogy of two cars traveling at the same speed—if one accelerates or decelerates, a gap will form. He pointed out the shift in industry focus from building switching centers to data centers and colocation spaces, necessitating trained engineers to operate these facilities.