A new, intensive virtual training program promises to equip African learners with practical Azure AI skills and a shot at Microsoft's AI-103 certification, as Nigerian firm Saidu B. Samaila & Co. and Houston-based Chamco Digital LLC launch a 14-week AI & Cloud Technology Workforce Training Programme today. Delivered entirely through Microsoft Teams, the course combines live instruction, hands-on labs, and portfolio projects, and is open to anyone from students to career changers—even those with no prior tech experience.

What the Training Covers

The curriculum is designed to take participants from foundational concepts to real-world AI solution building. It spans a wide range of topics that mirror the demands of today's AI-driven workplace:

  • Python programming for data manipulation and AI
  • Data analytics fundamentals
  • Microsoft Azure AI services, including Azure AI Foundry and Azure AI Search
  • Generative AI and prompt engineering
  • Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) for enterprise knowledge systems
  • AI agents and agentic application development
  • Document Intelligence and Computer Vision
  • Speech AI and natural language processing
  • Microsoft Copilot integration
  • Responsible AI principles and enterprise deployment

The program is not just theory. Participants will build portfolio-ready projects, including chatbots, AI assistants, document-processing tools, enterprise AI agents, and AI-powered search applications. Weekly assessments and a capstone project ensure that skills are applied in scenarios that mimic on-the-job tasks.

Who Should Apply

The organizers cast a deliberately wide net. The program is aimed at:

  • University students and recent graduates
  • Working professionals seeking to upskill
  • Entrepreneurs and business executives
  • Public sector employees
  • Career changers with no IT background

Because the training is fully virtual and held via Microsoft Teams, it can fit around academic schedules, employment, or business commitments. Live instructor-led sessions are supplemented with on-demand lab access, making it possible to learn from anywhere with an internet connection.

The Certification Pathway

A standout feature is the alignment with Microsoft's certification ecosystem. The program specifically prepares participants for the AI-901 (Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals) and AI-103 (Developing AI Applications and Agents on Azure) exams.

The AI-103 credential is Microsoft's latest exam for AI engineers, focusing on building and deploying AI apps and agents using Azure AI Foundry. While the press release does not mention the retired AI-102, industry sources note that AI-102 and its associated Azure AI Engineer Associate certification were discontinued on June 30, 2026, making AI-103 the current professional-level pathway. This transition is important for anyone mapping their certification journey. Eligible participants may receive financial and preparatory support toward the AI-103 exam. However, applicants should verify current exam availability, scheduling, and any support policies directly with the training providers before enrolling.

Successful participants who meet all requirements will receive a Certificate of Completion from Saidu B. Samaila & Co. and Chamco Digital.

Behind the Partnership

Saidu B. Samaila & Co. is a well-established chartered accountancy and professional services firm with a dedicated training division. By partnering with Chamco Digital LLC—a Microsoft Solutions Partner specializing in Azure, AI, and workforce development—the initiative brings together local market knowledge and deep technical expertise. Chamco Digital's status as a Microsoft partner ensures that the curriculum is aligned with the latest Azure services and best practices.

How to Enroll

Registration is handled directly through the websites of the partnering organizations:

Interested participants should visit either site to find the dedicated registration portal for the AI & Cloud Technology Workforce Training Programme. Because cohorts may have limited capacity, early inquiry is advisable. Providers recommend contacting them directly for details on fees, schedules, and access requirements.

Why African AI Talent Matters

The launch comes at a time when organizations worldwide are accelerating AI adoption, yet the supply of skilled professionals lags far behind demand. In Nigeria and across Africa, bridging this gap is critical for economic growth and global competitiveness. Training programs that offer hands-on Azure AI experience and certification pipelines can unlock opportunities in both local and international markets.

“Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries and redefining the future of work,” said the Managing Partner of Saidu B. Samaila & Co. in a statement. “Our partnership with Chamco Digital LLC reflects our commitment to expanding access to high-quality AI and cloud technology education.”

Chamco Digital’s Managing Director added, “By combining expert instruction with hands-on practical experience, this programme will prepare participants with the technical skills, confidence, and globally recognized certification pathways required to thrive in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.”

What to Watch Next

As AI-103 becomes the standard for Azure AI engineers, more bootcamps and corporate training initiatives are likely to align with this exam. For Nigerian learners, the Saidu B. Samaila–Chamco program represents an early opportunity to gain credentials that are directly relevant to the current job market. Future cohorts may expand to other African regions, and the partnership could serve as a model for similar public-private training initiatives.

For now, the immediate step for anyone interested is to confirm the next cohort start date, verify exam support details, and secure a spot. In a field where practical skills and certification can open doors, a 14-week commitment could mark the start of a career in one of technology’s fastest-growing domains.