CMU-Africa Certificate in Artificial Intelligence for Africa 2027

Carnegie Mellon University Africa's Certificate in Artificial Intelligence for Africa is a cost-free, six-course online programme for learners who want to build artificial intelligence applications relevant to African contexts. It combines perspective on AI in Africa with practical technical training and hands-on exercises using industry-standard tools. The six courses cover Artificial Intelligence: Past, Present and Future; AI and Machine Learning in Africa; Python for AI; Mathematical Foundations of Machine Learning; Machine Learning Essentials; and Applied Generative AI. Each course contains 14 or 15 lessons designed to take approximately three hours each, or about 45 hours per course. Learners should plan for at least five to six hours of study each week. The programme is intended for undergraduate students, early-career learners and mid-career technical professionals. It can support pathways into machine learning applications, AI application development, AI product support, research and related technical fields. Learners earn a digital badge for each completed course and a shareable, verifiable certificate after completing all six courses. The certificate is not for university credit. Applications for the January 2027 cohort are open from 15 October to 15 November 2026. The cohort starts on 17 January 2027. Carnegie Mellon University Africa has not stated a closing time or timezone, so applicants should submit before the final day. Applicants submit their contact information, academic background, professional experience, CV and a brief statement of professional goals through the official application route. Admission is by invitation after application review and depends on available space. Meeting the prerequisites does not guarantee selection.

Applicants must have introductory knowledge of linear algebra, probability and statistics, together with computer programming experience. They also need reliable internet access, a laptop or desktop computer and at least five hours each week for the lessons. The programme is designed for learners interested in developing AI skills and applications relevant to Africa, including undergraduate students, early-career learners and mid-career technical professionals. Applicants should be ready to provide a CV, academic background, professional experience and a short statement of professional goals. The programme is cost-free for qualified applicants, but enrolment is by invitation and subject to available space.