The Ministry of ICT, Innovation, and Youth Affairs in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and getINNOtized have committed to train 100 youth in cloud computing and link them to employment opportunities by the end of the year.
50 learners have already enrolled for the Under AWS re/Start programme through the government-backed Ajira Digital where they will be equipped with new cloud computing skills, career and resume coaching, and interview opportunities with local employers.
According to AWS Kenya Business Lead for East Africa Robin Njiru, the 12-week programme will also see learners get support from professional mentors and accredited instructors to build a variety of technology skills such as programming, networking, security, and relational databases through real-world-scenario-based learning, hands-on labs, and coursework.
“Our objective is to help individuals develop in-demand cloud skills and prepare them for jobs in and around their local communities, specifically due to the high demand for this talent in the market and hence a higher chance of getting employment. We want to bridge the cloud skills gap in the country by training entry-level cloud talent, and connecting them to employers with hiring needs,” said Njiru.
AWS re/Start will also assist learners through their interview processes, as they pursue entry-level roles that require AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner knowledge and skills.
Speaking during the launch, MoICT’s Chief Administrative Secretary Maureen Mbaka said the government digitization projects are already creating viable microwork that can be completed by digital workers.
“We are excited to be part of AWS re/Start programme. Our main objectives are to raise the profile of digital work, promote a mentorship and collaborative learning approach to finding digital work, provide Kenyans with access to digital work, and finally promote Kenya as a destination for online workers,” said Mbaka.
Amazon further intends to recruit 400 learners next year as part of its effort to provide 29 million people around the world with access to free cloud computing training by 2025 through various AWS-designed programs, including AWS re/Start.
getINNOtized’s Chief Executive Officer Ulrich Busch said their mission is to create attractive work opportunities in Africa and provide a solution against the global shortage of skills.
“Our aim is to solve social challenges as we help companies connect to untapped IT skilled talent in Africa,” he explained.
The Kenya programme launch is part of AWS re/Start’s new entry into Africa.
Amazon launched the programme with the first African cohorts in October of last year in South Africa and has since added additional cohorts in Ghana and Nigeria.
The wider objective of the program is to enroll more than 1,000 learners in 2021 across 10 countries in Africa.
