Mobile Web Ghana in partnership with Microsoft Africa have hosted the Soft Launch of the Microsoft App Factory in Ghana.

The Microsoft App Factory is part of Microsoft’s 4Afrika initiative. The AppFactory is aimed at equipping young software developers with hands-on experience, while helping them build critical business skills to secure jobs or create their own businesses.

The purpose of the Soft Launch is to bring key industry players together to officially announce the commencement of the project, seek collaborations and demonstrate what has been learnt and showcase what can be achieved with partnership with private sectors.

The interns have been receiving technical assistance from well-qualified and experienced software developers in the country for the past two months, and they will get the chance to share their experience so far with the audience.

“Skills development is critical if Africa is to be a key player in the age of digital transformation. Many of our youth have brilliant ideas for apps but don’t have the time or resources to make these ideas a reality.

"Through initiatives like the app factory we are providing our youth with the support they need to bring these ideas to life and we’re excited about the massive potential we have seen so far,” says Derek Appiah, Country Manager, Microsoft Ghana.

Among some of the people who will be present are Derek Appiah, Country Manager, Microsoft Ghana, Dr. Nii Quaynor, key personalities in academia, industry leaders, reps from government and chief executives of technology companies and computer science students.

The event gave industry players an opportunity to collaborate and partner with Mobile Web Ghana to churn out technology skills for industries.