The ICT Authority, in collaboration with Huawei Kenya, has officially launched the physical training phase for Cohort IX of the Presidential DigiTalent Program (PDTP) at the University of Nairobi. This marks the first in-person Huawei-sponsored PDTP training since the COVID-19 pandemic and underscores a renewed focus on hands-on, collaborative learning for Kenya’s next generation of ICT professionals.
PDTP, a flagship initiative of the Government of Kenya implemented by the ICT Authority, is designed to equip recent graduates with advanced ICT skills, industry exposure, and professional mentorship to enhance employability. To date, the program has trained over 3,300 interns, with more than 2,200 securing employments across the public and private sectors.
Speaking at the launch, the Acting CEO of the ICT Authority emphasized the program’s transformative impact:
“PDTP interns have played a key role in driving government digitization projects such as the Digital Literacy Program (DLP), NTSA Digitization, Huduma Number, and the Konza Data Center. These young professionals are not just job seekers—they are the innovators powering Kenya’s digital future.”
Huawei Kenya, a long-term strategic partner of the Presidential Digital Talent Programme (PDTP), has played a pivotal role in nurturing the country’s digital workforce. Through its sustained collaboration with the initiative, Huawei Kenya has successfully trained over 2,400 interns in previous cohorts, equipping them with critical technical skills to meet the demands of the evolving ICT sector.
In the current phase of the programme, 400 interns will undergo intensive, hands-on technical training, delivered through two specialized learning tracks. The first is the Network & Cybersecurity Path, which includes the highly regarded HCIA-Datacom certification and will engage 165 interns. The second is the Cloud & AI Path, designed to prepare participants for emerging technologies through certifications in HCIA-Cloud Service and HCIA-AI. This track will train more than 200 interns.
By continuing to invest in such capacity-building efforts, Huawei Kenya reinforces its commitment to strengthening Kenya’s digital ecosystem and empowering the next generation of ICT professionals.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Michael Kamau, Huawei ICT Academy Manager, noted:
“Empowering the next generation of ICT leaders starts with world-class training and globally recognized certifications. Through the Huawei ICT Academy, we’re preparing PDTP Cohort IX with practical, future-proof skills in Data Communication, Cloud Services, and Artificial Intelligence—technologies that define the digital age.”
The training runs from 7th to 18th July 2025, preparing interns for Huawei Certified ICT Associate (HCIA) certifications. Outstanding trainees will also be eligible for Huawei Certified ICT Professional (HCIP) sponsorships.
Dr. Johnson Kinyua, Dean of Students at the University of Nairobi, expressed the institution’s commitment to nurturing talent: “The University of Nairobi is proud to host and support this vital initiative. As the training hub for PDTP Cohort IX, we are committed to fostering a learning environment where ambition meets opportunity and innovation thrives.”
Highlighting the importance of mindset in career growth, Mr. Adam Lane, Director of Policy and Partnerships at Huawei Kenya, shared: “Technical skills are just the beginning. In today’s dynamic ICT industry, success also requires adaptability, resilience, and a growth mindset. Embrace change, align with your organization’s mission, and unlock your leadership potential.”
Huawei has also fully sponsored the certification exam fees through vouchers, ensuring that all interns can sit for their respective exams at no cost. Encouraging the interns to take full advantage of this opportunity, the Acting CEO of the ICT Authority remarked: “These certifications are your gateway to the digital economy. Take them seriously, aim to pass on your first attempt, and position yourselves for success—locally and globally.”
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