A new project funded by the European Commission is connecting IT professionals in Africa with tech companies in the Baltic region. The Digital Explorers program aims to tackle the skills gap in the Baltic tech sector. It’s all about fostering connections between skilled individuals and businesses, enhancing engagement between the Baltic nations and African countries.
In Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius, the Turing College data science school has already trained 90 junior to mid-level data analysts from Africa through remote sessions. These analysts will eventually move to the Baltic region, diving into its vibrant tech startup landscape. The goal is to create a scalable model for other EU regions.
Žilvinas Švedkauskas, managing director at Lithuanian think tank OSMOS, highlights the surprising partnerships formed, like the one between Lithuania and Nigeria. He emphasizes the human element of the project, stating, “We built the project around the people and their digital journeys. We create connections that pave the way for more business and government collaboration.”
Digital Explorers started in Lithuania but has expanded to include Estonia and Latvia as well. In Africa, Nigeria and Kenya are key players, alongside Armenia. “We’re piloting arrangements to see how this can work globally,” Švedkauskas notes.
The training, initially conducted online, introduces African talent to the methods and teamwork styles typical in the Baltic tech scene. “All the mentors are industry professionals, and the learning environment simulates how teams are structured in tech companies here,” Švedkauskas explains. The program connects talent with businesses eager to diversify their teams and explore new markets.
For the data analysts, opportunities include internships in the Baltic countries lasting six months. Digital Explorers covers the scholarships and travel expenses. “After that, it’s up to the companies to mentor these interns,” Švedkauskas adds.
Once the internships wrap up, trainees can return home with support from Digital Explorers for reintegration, or they might choose to stay in the Baltics and receive help for long-term settling. Since the program launched in 2019, 53 trainees have made the move.
However, the project isn’t without its hurdles. Švedkauskas acknowledges that stricter immigration regulations are making relocations tougher. “The picture is not all rosy. We need advocacy and informed persuasion to navigate these challenges,” he emphasizes.
Mercy Kimalat, CEO of the Association of Startup and SME Enablers of Kenya (ASSEK) and part of the program, remarks on the mature and stable startup ecosystem in the Baltics. “It’s impressive, but it needs to keep growing and innovating. Global partnerships and fresh talent can really benefit us all and spark honest discussions about resiliency,” she says.
Kimalat also notes that achieving the initiative’s goals is challenging, especially with hurdles like rising inflation and political instability in both Kenya and the Baltics. Yet, she feels inspired by how different startup ecosystems continue to thrive and push for growth despite adversity.