SKOT Impact Academy Expands Across Africa as 1,300+ Applications Highlight Demand for PR Talent

SKOT Communications is set to begin the third cohort of its SKOT Impact Academy, a six-week training programme aimed at helping early-career professionals develop practical skills in public relations and communications.

The latest cohort is scheduled to commence on October 10, 2026, as the programme expands its focus on communications talent in Africa and other parts of the world.

Applications Show Growing Interest Across Countries

The Academy has received more than 1,300 applications across its three cohorts since the programme was launched.

Previous participants have included professionals from Nigeria, Kenya and the United Kingdom, while interest in the third cohort has extended to 14 countries.

Applications for the latest programme were received from Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Uganda, Pakistan, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Malawi, Bangladesh, Nepal, Tanzania and The Gambia.

Programme Targets Practical Communications Skills

SKOT Communications said the Academy was established to provide more accessible and practical routes into the communications profession for people at the early stages of their careers.

The company said the changing nature of the industry means communications professionals increasingly need capabilities that extend beyond conventional media relations and storytelling.

Professionals are now expected to understand reputation management, crisis communication, digital platforms, emerging technologies and industry trends while also connecting communications work to wider organisational goals.

Academy Founder Highlights Industry Demand

Tokunboh George Taylor, founder and chief executive officer of SKOT Communications, said the response to the programme demonstrated demand for practical opportunities within the communications sector.

Taylor said the organisation had recognised a need for accessible pathways into the profession when the Academy was established.

She said the growth of the programme had also highlighted the level of talent available within the communications industry.

Focus Extends Beyond Participant Numbers

According to Taylor, the long-term value of the Academy would not be determined solely by the number of people who complete the programme.

She said the careers developed by participants and the contributions they make to the communications industry would also form an important part of assessing the Academy’s impact.

The organisation plans to expand the programme’s reach while continuing to develop its content and relevance for communications professionals.

Communications Industry Continues to Evolve

SKOT Communications said changes in the media and business environment have increased the range of responsibilities expected from communications professionals.

The rise of digital platforms and new technologies has altered how organisations communicate with audiences, respond to crises and manage their reputations.

Professionals must also be able to interpret emerging trends and ensure communications strategies support broader organisational priorities.

Practical Experience Seen as Key to Career Development

The company said training the next generation of communications professionals requires more than simply transferring theoretical knowledge.

It said early-career practitioners also need opportunities to develop practical skills, professional judgement and confidence in applying what they learn.

The six-week Academy is positioned as part of that approach, providing participants with an intensive learning experience focused on the demands of the modern communications environment.

Programme Looks Beyond Nigeria

With applications coming from countries across Africa and Asia, as well as previous participation from the United Kingdom, the Academy’s latest cohort reflects an increasingly international interest in the programme.

SKOT Communications said its longer-term ambition is to reach more professionals and extend the programme’s impact across Africa and beyond.

The third cohort will begin on October 10 as the Academy enters its next phase of development.