IBTC Launches Data Centre Academy to Power Africa’s Digital Talent Pipeline

PRESS RELEASE

Cape Town, South Africa — 14 April 2026

The rapid expansion of digital infrastructure across Africa is driving unprecedented demand for skilled, job-ready data centre professionals. Yet the industry continues to face a critical constraint: a shortage of qualified technical talent.
In response, IBTC has launched the IBTC Data Centre Academy — a collaborative, industry-led initiative designed to build a sustainable pipeline of skilled data centre engineers across the continent. As a demonstration of its commitment, IBTC has sponsored 30 recently graduated engineers to complete the Schneider Electric University Data Centre Certified Associate programme. This inaugural
cohort marks the first step in scaling a new, structured pathway into the data centre industry.

A Practical, Industry-Aligned Model

The Academy combines:
• Internationally recognised certifications (Schneider Electric University and EPI)
• Structured, high-quality online learning
• A three-week internship at a live data centre

This model enables operators to evaluate candidates in real-world environments before hiring – reducing risk while accelerating workforce development.The programme was developed following industry research funded by the Digital Investments Facility (DIF), and EU Commission Funding initiative, which confirmed that demand for talent is outpacing supply across the sector.

“With the speed at which the data centre industry is expanding across Africa, we cannot rely on the existing talent pool alone. We need to actively grow the pipeline of skilled engineers entering the sector.” — Lee Perrin

“Developing sustainable digital infrastructure requires investment not only in technology, but in people,” added a DIF representative. “We are proud to have funded the research that helped shape this initiative and look forward to seeing its impact across the continent.”

Industry Participation Underway

Leading Nigerian operator Rack Centre (Lagos) has become the first organisation to join the initiative, sponsoring candidates and hosting internships as part of the Academy’s pilot phase.“The region’s digital infrastructure cannot scale without a strong pipeline of skilled engineers. This initiative creates a practical pathway into the industry, and we’re proud to be part of building that future.” — Lars Johannisson, CEO, Rack Centre Nigeria

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IBTC is currently in discussions with additional data centre operators across Africa, with strong early interest from industry stakeholders.

A Growing Ecosystem of Partners

The Academy is supported by a broad coalition of partners, including:
• DIF (research and funding support)
• Schneider Electric University and EPI (certification partners)
• Universities and institutions including Stellenbosch, UJ, and Western Cape University partners
• SAYouth (graduate outreach)
• Data Centre Elite (recruitment support)
• Africa Data Centres Association (ADCA) and Digital Council Africa (industry support)

Together, these partners are helping to build a scalable, industry-aligned talent pipeline.

Call to Industry

IBTC is inviting data centre operators, OEMs, technology partners, and academic institutions to participate by sponsoring students, hosting internships, and contributing to skills development. “This initiative is about more than training — it’s about building the workforce that will power Africa’s digital future,” said IBTC. The first cohort will begin in May 2026, with internships commencing in August 2026.

Media Contact
Vanessa Schreyer – Info@ibtc.co.za