Google has unveiled a new initiative to support Africa’s digital transformation by providing free one-year subscriptions to its AI Pro plan for college students in Nigeria and seven other countries.
The program, announced as part of the tech giant’s broader investment strategy in the continent, will benefit students aged 18 and older across Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe.
Through the offer, students will gain access to a suite of advanced artificial intelligence tools, including Deep Research, which compiles tailored research reports from hundreds of verified sources, and Gemini 2.5 Pro, designed to support academic work such as writing, analysis, and assignments.
Google said the initiative is aimed at equipping Africa’s young population with cutting-edge technology to boost learning, foster innovation, and strengthen competitiveness in a global economy increasingly driven by AI.
Education and technology experts have welcomed the move, noting that access to premium AI tools could help students bridge gaps in research infrastructure and improve academic performance. However, they also stressed the need for training to ensure students understand how to use the tools effectively and ethically.
With Africa’s student population projected to rise significantly over the next decade, Google’s AI Pro initiative is expected to have far-reaching impact, offering young people opportunities to gain digital skills that are critical for the future of work.
