A trailblazing EduTech company, Heels and Tech, has launched HT Pay, a new financing initiative aimed at empowering African youths to excel in the tech space.
The move comes as Africa approaches a pivotal demographic shift, with the continent expected to house the world’s youngest population by 2030.
With projections of approximately 340 million youths by then, equipping even 10–25 per cent of this population with tech skills could transform the continent into a hub of innovation and global excellence.
The demand for tech talent is surging globally, driven by rapid technological advancements. The global eLearning market, valued at $399.3 billion in 2022, is projected to exceed $1 trillion by 2032. Platforms like Coursera have seen significant uptake in Africa, with 27 per cent of their 5.3 million African users pursuing tech-related careers.
Bisola Alabi, founder of Heels and Tech, recognises this trend and emphasises that a blend of education and hands-on experience is crucial to securing a future in tech for African youths.
Heels and Tech has made strides in bridging the gender gap in tech by equipping women with practical, in-demand skills.
However, the steep costs of quality tech education remain a significant hurdle, especially in Nigeria’s struggling economy. With the Naira trading at approximately N1,658 to the dollar, the cost of a $200 tech course constitutes an overwhelming portion of a young Nigerian’s average monthly income of $30–$60. This economic reality inspired the launch of HT Pay, a solution designed to ease financial burdens and make tech education accessible to more people.
HT Pay provides customised loan solutions for women and professionals aspiring to build careers in tech. The platform features flexible payment plans, direct loan disbursements to educational institutions, and easy repayment options in Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs). It also supports both local and international certifications, ensuring that African learners remain competitive on the global stage.
The initiative prioritizes short, in-demand courses while offering personalized support from loan advisors. According to Alabi, HT Pay is not limited to Heels and Tech programs but is designed to support their professional certification. By providing tailored financing options, HT Pay opens doors for young Africans to access quality education and secure lucrative careers in the tech industry.
With an initial funding pool of $10,000, HT Pay is set to make a significant impact on the continent’s tech ecosystem. Aspiring learners need only to choose a tech niche, enroll in a reputable institution, and complete a quick application process to access the financing. The goal is clear: to eliminate the financial barriers that hinder millions of Africans from unlocking their potential in tech.
As Africa’s youth population continues to grow, Heels and Tech’s vision of empowering 10 million African talents through education financing could reshape the continent’s future. By equipping the next generation with essential skills and opportunities, initiatives like HT Pay are positioning Africa as a global powerhouse in technology and innovation.
Aliyu is a multimedia journalist and SEO editor with over three years of experience.
