Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Acyberschool to train one million Kenyan youths on artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity.
The partnership is geared towards positioning Kenyan youth in a vantage position to create and thrive in jobs in the digital economy across Africa and beyond.
The MoU, which was signed on Wednesday at the ongoing Connected Africa Summit 2024 at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, will be implemented in five years, with both parties collaborating in mobilization of resources required to make the partnership successful.
Speaking after the signing, KoTDA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) John Paul Okwiri noted that the partnership will boost the Jitume Digital Skills programme and accelerate digital skills development in the country.
“This partnership with Acyberschool will enable us to train Kenyan youth on AI, emerging technologies, and cybersecurity solutions. This means that in the near future, we will enhance our ability to have more jobs in the digital space,” said Okwiri.
He added that the programme which will be done in phases is a key target for the two partners, and believes that through mobilising resources together, they will be able to augment their key efforts in Jitume programmes.
In his remarks, the CEO, Acyberschool and Chairperson, Africa Cybersecurity and AI Foundation (ACAIF) Evalyn Oloo who urged Kenyan youth to take advantage of the training, said the MoU will help young Kenyans acquire skills required in the market as well as prepare them to be ready for future jobs.
“Cybersecurity and AI are emerging areas which are key to the new digital jobs. We are training Kenyans for the future of work, and I would like to encourage all young people to take this opportunity, train and acquire the relevant skills required to thrive in the digital industry.” she said.
The African ICT Industry has been calling on all industry players at the ongoing Connected Africa Summit 2024 which started on Monday this week to leverage young people and advance the digital space.
Currently, Konza Technopolis, ICT Authority and The Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority are spearheading the Jitume Programme training together with the private sector in an endeavour to provide specialised training and resources to support growth.
By Bernadette Khaduli
