A number of technology sector players have today partnered to launch the Digital Talent Program in Kenya. This program focuses on developing digital skills in the market by taking a sustainable approach to create a healthy digital talent pipeline.
During its first year, the partners hope that the program will upskill 1,000 participants with high demand digital skills. The partners are drawn from different organizations from academia, training partners, tech-hubs, Government as well as industry players.
At the moment, over 30 partners are onboard and they include 6 Universities, 14 Training Partners, 5 Tech-Hubs and community organizations, 7 Government agencies and 14 industry players including Big-Tech are part of the program.
This program will focus on 9 main skill areas including UI/UX design; Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning; IOT; Big Data and Analytics; Cyber Security; Cloud Computing; Fintech; Robotics Process Automation; and Software Engineering.
What it entails
The program will have a hybrid delivery approach with classroom, mentorship and internships. There will also be some practical aspects including hackathons, fireside chats, guest lecture sessions, incubation, career fairs, annual awards, curriculum reviews, placements, and certifications, among others.
If you are interested in learning more on how to join or be a partner, you can send an email to Digitaltalent@Safaricom.co.ke
Speaking on this program, Simon Chelugui, Cabinet Secretary – Ministry of Labour said, “It has been observed that there is a number of youth with ICT related certificates who do not possess the skills and competencies required by the employer. Therefore, it is important for us as an industry and sector to push for digital penetration and come up with training and upskilling institutes to support those who are willing to be trained.”
Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom PLC CEO said: “The digital talent program is in line with our purpose of transforming lives and vision to become a purpose-led technology company. Our ultimate objective is to position Kenya as the leading hub for tech talent in Africa.”
Catherine Muraga, MD ADC, Microsoft said: “We believe that Africa should not only be a consumer of technology, but also a hub for local talent. We can make a contribution in shaping and innovating the world. Kenya has a huge talent pool of competent and capable developers. That is why Microsoft and other tech companies are setting up their Africa operations here.”
Those partners from the academic sector will be able to provide a pipeline for digital talent as well as the institutional strength and mandate to facilitate and implement classroom learning. Tech Hubs will also provide a talent pipeline and play a critical role in driving innovation, while training partners will curate digital learning paths that are relevant to industry expectations.
Government agencies will enable the program through implementing relevant policies. Industry partners, including big-tech companies, will be the key beneficiaries of the talent pipeline that the program seeks to create, and will also provide coaching and mentorship as well as internship and employment opportunities.
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