SKOT Impact Academy will offer free trainingto 200 communications professionals in 2026

Funmi Ogundare 

SKOT Communications announced that its SKOT Impact Academy will provide tuition‑free training to more than 200 early‑career communications professionals in 2026, reinforcing its aim to develop globally competitive talent across Africa and beyond.

The statement was made as the organisation launched the second cohort of its six‑week intensive programme, which targets communications practitioners with one to two years of experience.

According to SKOT, the initiative aligns with the academy’s broader vision to nurture industry talent and extend its reach beyond Nigeria into key international markets.

The second cohort received over 500 applications, underscoring rising demand for accessible, high‑quality training in strategic communications. After a competitive selection process, 60 candidates were admitted to the programme.

To enhance accessibility and inclusivity, the academy adopted a hybrid learning model for this cohort: 40 participants will attend in‑person sessions in Lagos, while 20 will join virtually from locations such as Kenya and the United Kingdom.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SKOT Communications and SKOT Academy, Tokunboh George‑Taylor, said the growing number of applications reflects a preference for practical, application‑driven learning within the communications field.

“The continued demand and rise in applications for the SKOT Impact Academy reflects a shift towards more practical, application‑driven learning in communications. Our focus for this year is to train over 200 professionals, ensuring they are equipped with the strategic and executional capabilities required in today’s landscape,” she said.

She added that the academy will run three cohorts in 2026 as part of an expanded programme designed to strengthen participants’ storytelling, strategic thinking and execution skills through hands‑on learning, real‑world case studies and direct engagement with industry experts.

The CEO noted that the Impact Academy is one of three flagship programmes—alongside SKOT Masterclasses and SKOT Elevate—intended to support professionals and organisations at various stages of growth within the communications industry across Africa and other global markets.

She also emphasized that, despite increasing interest, the academy will maintain its tuition‑free model to lower barriers to entry and promote a more inclusive communications ecosystem.

An alumnus of the academy, Folasola Sodiq, described the programme as impactful for his professional development, highlighting that its practical structure and industry exposure significantly improved his approach to storytelling and strategy.

“The knowledge gained has remained relevant in my work and has contributed to my professional growth,” he said.