Enrollments in artificial intelligence (AI) courses in South Africa surged by 75% year over year, while critical thinking course enrollments experienced a 132% increase, according to Coursera’s Global Skills Report 2026. The report positions South Africa second among 11 Sub-Saharan African countries assessed and ranks it 73rd globally on its newly introduced AI-Human Skills Synergy Index.
This Index evaluates how learners in 98 countries develop AI skills alongside necessary human skills, factoring in each country’s overall readiness for AI implementation.
The report’s findings come as South Africa aims to improve the link between skills development and employment opportunities. A World Bank analysis notes ongoing challenges in recruiting for roles in software development, networking, and cybersecurity despite high unemployment rates. It highlights that nearly half of job postings emphasize transferable skills such as communication and problem-solving, underscoring the demand for a dual focus on technical and human skills.
The Global Skills Report 2026 is now in its eighth edition and is based on data from over 300 million learners on platforms such as Coursera and Udemy. It combines insights about AI and human skills development with national readiness data derived from the Government AI Readiness Index by Oxford Insights.
Trending topics in AI education within South Africa include generative AI, data analytics, and various AI frameworks. Notably, enrollments related to AI security have increased by 236%, agentic workflows by 195%, and generative AI by 161%.
Alongside technical skills, South African learners are also focusing on human skills essential for evaluating AI outputs and communicating their implications. Key themes include communication and presentation, stakeholder alignment, and critical thinking, which saw a 132% increase in enrollments. Other areas of growth include complex problem-solving, which grew by 28% year over year, and innovation, which increased by 19%.
The report highlights that South African learners uniquely combine AI and machine learning foundations with communication skills and critical thinking, enhancing their ability to clearly explain AI concepts and results to both technical and non-technical audiences.
As demand for job-relevant skills rises, micro-credentials have emerged as a means for individuals to showcase specific abilities verified through assessments. The report indicates that overall micro-credential enrollments in South Africa rose by 31% year over year, with AI-related micro-credential enrollments increasing by 74%.
Kais Zribi, Coursera’s General Manager for the Middle East and Africa, commented on the findings, stating that South Africa’s increased engagement in AI and human skills education provides a solid foundation for workforce development. He emphasized the need to align educational programs with employer requirements, facilitating clearer pathways into employment and enhancing productivity as businesses integrate AI.
For more details, Coursera’s Global Skills Report 2026 is available online.
