Maliyo Games has partnered with Arizona State University (ASU) to train African youths in artificial intelligence and game development, launching a micro-credential programme under the GameUp Africa initiative. The collaboration with ASU's Endless Games and Learning Lab was unveiled in Lagos and offers practical training, real-world project experience, and stackable certifications issued by the American institution. On April 16, ASU officials visited Maliyo Games' Lagos facility, engaging with trainees and assessing expansion opportunities for the programme. Since its launch in early 2026, over 150 micro-credentials have been awarded to the first cohort, with each participant receiving an ASU certificate and digital badge. Founding Director of ASU's Endless Games and Learning Lab, Mark Olilla, said African developers' creativity and innovation surpassed expectations, calling the partnership a new phase in game development education. Maliyo Games CEO Hugo Obi stated the initiative supports the company's goal of building a sustainable gaming ecosystem in Africa through structured learning and community support. Trainee Ibrahim Karl shared that the programme enabled hands-on experience working with multidisciplinary teams across Africa on live game projects. The partnership aims to train and certify 10,000 African learners in the coming years, backed by Maliyo's commitment to infrastructure, curriculum development, and a physical innovation hub. Africa's gaming industry is projected to surpass $5 billion by 2030, fuelled by a young, tech-savvy population.
Hugo Obi claims the partnership will train 10,000 African youths, yet the first cohort saw only 150 certified since early 2026—raising questions about the pace and scalability of the rollout. The projected $5 billion African gaming industry by 2030 hinges on rapid skill development, but current certification numbers suggest a gap between ambition and execution. If growth remains linear, thousands of aspiring developers may miss critical opportunities in the expanding digital economy. The physical innovation hub Obi mentioned has not been located or dated, leaving expansion plans vague despite bold targets.
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