Kenyan Technology Players Organize Digital Talent Program For Youths
Major players in the Kenyan technology sector have come together to launch a Digital Talent Program directed at improving digital skills within the market by embarking on a sustainable approach to help develop thriving digital talent.
The DTP is intended to train about One thousand participants in its maiden edition which will be based on digital skills which are currently highly demanded.
According to reports, so far it’s been a mega collaboration as thirty partners have already come together for the training, amongst them are six universities, fourteen training partners, five tech-hubs and community organizations, seven government agencies, and fourteen industry players, Big-Techs inclusive.
Secretary to the Labor and Social Services Cabinet, Simon Cheelugui, stated that the ministry will consistently push digital perforation and give support to those willing to be trained.
In his words, “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.”
Likewise, Peter Ndegwa, Chief Executive Officer, Safaricom, gave his opinion on the program, “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, Managing Director, Microsoft Africa Development Center, demonstrated confidence in Kenya’s ability and competence in the digital world pointing out that there is a lot of talent in the nation.
Muraga noted“We believe that Africa should not only be a consumer of technology, but also a hub for local talent. We can make a contribution to 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.”
The program is designed to focus on 9 major skill areas which include Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security UI/UX design, Cloud Computing, Fintech, Robotics, Software Engineering, and many more.