Kenya’s
ambitious AI National Skilling Initiative for TVETs is making significant
strides, equipping Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
students and instructors with essential artificial intelligence (AI) skills.
Launched in November 2024 as a partnership between Microsoft, through Pathways
Technologies Limited, and the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the
Digital Economy, through Konza Technopolis, the initiative aims to train
100,000 individuals by May 2025. The program is already operational in 16 pilot
sites, with plans to expand to 25 additional locations across the country.
The Principal
Secretary of the State Department of ICT and Digital Economy, John Kipchumba
Tanui has received a progress update from the Microsoft team, led by Mercy
Karori, Client Executive for Enterprise Education at Microsoft, and the Jitume
ICT Hubs program secretariat. The briefing highlighted the initiative’s impact
in enhancing innovation and creating opportunities for youth and educators
nationwide.
“This
initiative is a game-changer for Kenya’s digital transformation,” said Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui. “By empowering our youth and
educators with AI skills, we are creating a foundation for innovation and
economic growth that will benefit the entire nation.”
The program
leverages Jitume digital hubs, which serve as centers for digital skills
training and innovation. These hubs provide access to cutting-edge technology,
online learning platforms, and mentorship opportunities, enabling participants
to gain hands-on experience in AI and other digital technologies.
Mercy Karori of
Microsoft emphasized the importance of the initiative in driving digital
inclusion. “The AI National Skilling Initiative is about more than just
training—it’s about creating opportunities for young people to thrive in the
digital economy,” she said. “We are proud to partner with the Kenyan
government to make this vision a reality.”
Since its
launch, the initiative has made significant progress, with 16 pilot sites
already operational and 25 additional sites set to join the program. The
six-month training program covers a wide range of AI-related topics, including
machine learning, data science, and AI application development. Participants
also gain access to Microsoft’s learning resources and certifications,
enhancing their employability and career prospects.
By: Kanto Okanta
