Maliyo Games, a game development studio based in Lagos, has entered into a partnership with Arizona State University’s Endless Games and Learning Lab to deliver a large-scale AI training programme for aspiring game developers across Africa.
The program aims to train up to 10,000 developers, equipping participants with skills in AI, game design, and immersive technologies. It combines academic instruction with practical, project-based learning designed to meet global industry standards while incorporating locally relevant content.
Speaking about the partnership, a representative of Maliyo Games said the initiative focuses on building a sustainable talent pipeline.
“This partnership is about more than training-it’s about creating a pipeline of globally competitive developers who can leverage AI to tell African stories and build world-class products,” the representative said.
Officials at Arizona State University highlighted the importance of international collaboration in expanding access to emerging technologies.
“We see this as a mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge. By working with partners in Nigeria, we are expanding access to cutting-edge AI education while also learning from a rapidly evolving tech ecosystem,” a spokesperson from the Endless Games and Learning Lab noted.
As of April 2026, more than 150 micro-credentials have already been issued to participants in the first cohort, reflecting early progress in the program’s rollout. The initiative allows learners to earn digital badges and certificates directly from Arizona State University, providing globally recognised validation of their skills.
Organisers say the curriculum spans foundational AI concepts and specialised applications in gaming, animation, and interactive media. Participants may also gain access to mentorship, collaborative projects, and potential internship opportunities, bridging the gap between academia and industry.
The partnership comes amid rapid growth in Africa’s gaming sector, with industry projections estimating the market could exceed several billion dollars by 2030. Analysts say initiatives like this are critical to ensuring that African developers are equipped to compete globally.
“Nigeria has one of the fastest-growing developer communities in the world. Programs like this are essential to ensuring that talent is not just abundant, but globally competitive,” a local industry analyst said.
The program will continue to roll out in phases, with plans to expand access, introduce additional certifications, and extend participation to developers across the continent.
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