HP Inc. has partnered with Google’s Hustle Academy and UpSkill Universe to train entrepreneurs on leveraging technology for growth.
The organisations hosted a one-day intensive bootcamp in Lagos, focusing on preparing Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises for the future of work.
The event offered hands-on training in digital innovation, artificial intelligence, and core business skills.
Country Director for HP Nigeria, Emmanuel Eze, described the country as a strategic hub in HP’s global digital inclusion drive.
Eze said, “Nigeria is a very strategic market, being the most populous country in Africa. The country has a vibrant tech ecosystem, with new startups emerging every day. While millions are already online, many more are yet to be connected, and that presents a huge opportunity to grow the digital ecosystem.”
He explained that the bootcamp supports HP’s global pledge to train 150 million people by 2030, with Nigeria playing a key role in that commitment.
He also identified infrastructure gaps and weak policy frameworks as barriers to digital access, stating, “A lot of the time, we are dealing with issues like infrastructure and policy-related challenges that limit access to digital resources.”
To address these, Eze noted that HP is partnering with local non-profits to deliver digital training to underserved areas. He added, “We’re partnering with organisations to bring technology and training to rural areas. Through mentorship and guidance, we’re helping more people access the digital ecosystem.”
He stressed that bridging Nigeria’s digital divide would require broad collaboration. “You can’t do it alone. You need the government, the private sector, and individuals working together. When we all collaborate, we can address the digital gap more effectively,” he stressed.
HP’s interventions in Nigeria include collaborations with Slum2School, She Code Africa, and the 1 Million Teachers initiative. Mr. Eze said, “What HP does go beyond selling products. We’re focused on making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.”
He explained that Slum2School reaches underserved children, She Code Africa supports women in tech, and the 1 Million Teachers initiative strengthens grassroots education.
Mr. Eze urged participants to explore the HP LIFE platform, a free online resource offering training in business, technology, and soft skills.
“The HP LIFE platform is free and open to everyone,” he said. “You can log in by yourself and start learning immediately.”
He added that UpSkill Universe, one of the training partners, is helping bootcamp participants navigate the platform and build relevant skills.
The initiative falls under Google’s Hustle Academy, which has trained over 14,000 businesses across Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa, with a focus on women-led enterprises and job creation.
The bootcamp brought together stakeholders from the tech and business sectors, reinforcing the need for inclusive digital transformation to unlock Nigeria’s economic potential.
