80 students graduate with tech career skills

Some of the students who graduated after completing a 12-week free online tech skills training initiative called Ajira Digital by the Kenyan government and other partners such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), in Nairobi. [Nanjinia Wamuswa, Standard]

Some 80 students have graduated after completing a 12-week free online tech skills training offered by the government and other partners.

Ajira Digital is an initiative of the Ministry of Information, Communications and Digital Economy in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Under the Ajira AWS re/Start programme, the students learned practical career skills such as Python programming, DevOps, SysOps, Cyber Security, and Artificial Intelligence Process Automation.

Sheila Olga, a beneficiary applied for the programme in December, 2021. After studying hospitality, Sheila has searched for job opportunities without success.

"I decided to sign up for the tech programme since everyone was saying it was becoming on high demand," she says, adding they learned Programming, Linux foundation, how to use python, Coding and data analytics.

The learners acquire a range of skills in a number of technology areas, including Linux, Python, networking, security, and relational databases.

Nyambura Kariuki, who represented the ministry, lauded partners for supporting the Ajira AWS re/Start programme and assured of the government's commitment to providing a conducive operating environment across all sectors.

"The ICT Policy, which is driven by 4 key pillars including Mobile Pass, Markets, Skills and Innovation, and Public Service Delivery. These pillars are geared towards the realisation of the potential of the digital economy while leveraging the power of ICT and innovation," she says.

Speaking during the graduation, Marine Houmeau, AWS re/Start, Regional Programme Lead Sub-Saharan Africa, said the initiative has enrolled 2,000 young people in Africa since its launch two years ago.

She explained they are focused on their learners, collaborating partners and employers and urged young people to take the advantage of the programme owing to its flexibility and enroll at zero cost provided they have access to the internet and a computer.

"People not privileged to own such digital tools can benefit by visiting Ajira Youth Empowerment Centres near them," she said.