Huawei participated in Safaricom Decode 3.0, a premier career and networking event that brought together industry leaders, students, and aspiring professionals to bridge the gap between academia and the job market. The event, designed to equip young talent with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the digital economy, featured insightful discussions, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities designed to bridge the gap between academia and the job market.
Michael Kamau, Head of Huawei ICT Academy, was among the key speakers, sharing insights on mentorship and career growth. He highlighted Huawei’s commitment to nurturing young talent through initiatives like the Huawei ICT Competition and Seeds for the Future. The Huawei ICT Competition, a flagship program under the Huawei ICT Academy, provides students with a global platform to showcase their skills in cutting-edge technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and networking. Kenyan students have consistently excelled in the competition, gaining recognition and unlocking career opportunities in the ICT sector.
Mr. Kamau emphasized the importance of engaging with the ICT industry early. “Some of the best professionals in the job market today began networking with technology companies before graduating. This exposure is essential for success,” he said. He urged attendees to take advantage of industry-sponsored programs, pursue professional certifications, and actively participate in initiatives that prepare them for the evolving job market. “The ICT industry is highly competitive, and the future of work is anchored on ICT. Your success starts the moment you join the university/college. Engaging with the industry is a wise investment of your time and resources,” he added.
Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of youth and innovation in shaping Kenya’s digital future. “Safaricom Decode 3.0 reflects our commitment to empowering young Kenyans with the skills, networks, and opportunities they need to excel in the digital economy. By connecting them with industry leaders and providing learning platforms, we are investing in the nation’s future,” he said.
Zakaria Kirui, HR Specialist at Huawei Kenya, introduced entry-level opportunities to the attendees, including the Huawei Management Trainee Program (HMTP). This annual program, which runs from July, focuses on developing industry-specific skills. Participants gain knowledge about Huawei’s products and domains, culminating in practical project experience that prepares them for the workforce.
In preparation for the Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Final of the Huawei ICT Competition 2024-2025, Huawei Kenya recently hosted 18 top-performing students from universities across the country for an intensive training program. The students, who triumphed in the national finals, will represent Kenya at the regional showdown in March and the Global Finals in May 2025. Drawn from institutions such as Moi University, JKUAT, Machakos University, the University of Nairobi, Africa Nazarene University, and Mount Kenya University, the participants underwent rigorous mentorship, hands-on workshops, and collaborative sessions led by Huawei experts. The training focused on advanced ICT domains like networking, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, equipping the students with practical skills for the upcoming competition.
Safaricom Decode 3.0 underscored the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in preparing the next generation of technology leaders. By connecting youth with industry leaders, fostering mentorship, and providing learning platforms, the event reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Kenya’s digital future.
Also Read: Safaricom CEO Highlights AI Strategy at Decode 3.0
