SKOT Communications has commenced the third cohort of its SKOT Impact Academy, a six-week intensive programme designed to equip early-career public relations and communications professionals with practical skills for the evolving media, digital and business environment.

The new cohort is scheduled to begin on October 10, 2026, as the Academy broadens its efforts to develop communications talent across Africa and beyond.

More than 1,300 applications have been received across the three cohorts since the Academy was launched. Previous cohorts have attracted participants from Nigeria, Kenya and the United Kingdom.

Interest in the third cohort has expanded further, with applications coming from 14 countries: Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Uganda, Pakistan, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Malawi, Bangladesh, Nepal, Tanzania and The Gambia.

Founder and CEO of SKOT Communications, Tokunboh George Taylor, said the Academy’s growth demonstrates the demand for accessible and practical routes into the communications profession.

“When we launched SKOT Impact Academy, we knew there was a need for more accessible and practical pathways into the communications profession. As we begin our third cohort, we see clear evidence of both the demand for this kind of opportunity and the depth of talent that exists within our industry,” Taylor said.

She said the programme’s success would ultimately be reflected not only in the number of people trained, but also in the careers and contributions of professionals who complete the Academy.

“As the Academy grows, our ambition is to reach more people, deepen the quality and relevance of the programme, and extend its impact across Africa and beyond. We believe this is only the beginning of what SKOT Impact Academy can become,” she said.

SKOT Communications said the communications industry now demands a broader range of capabilities than traditional media relations and storytelling.

According to the company, professionals are increasingly required to manage reputation, respond to crises, use digital platforms and technology effectively, understand emerging trends and link communications activities to wider organisational goals.

The company therefore said preparing the next generation of communications professionals requires more than transferring knowledge. It also requires an environment where early-career practitioners can build practical capabilities, sound judgement and confidence.

With applications spanning 14 countries and more than 1,300 applications recorded across its three cohorts, the Academy is expanding its reach as it develops professionals for the changing communications landscape in Africa and beyond.

Source: msmeafricaonline