Over two million Kenyans to get training on AI skills in new drive

Amazon Web Services (AWS) will train two million people with free and essential artificial intelligence (AI) skills.

The AI Ready initiative is designed to equip Kenyans to thrive in the digital economy by 2025.

Regional Lead Public Sector for Sub-Saharan Africa at Amazon Web Services Robin Njiru says through the commitment, the tech firm is on a mission to “democratise“ AI education and open opportunities for Kenyans in the workforce while helping the next generation to benefit from the tremendous opportunity ahead.

“Artificial intelligence is the most transformative technology of our generation. If we are going to unlock the full potential of AI to tackle Africa’s most challenging problems, we need to make AI education accessible to anyone with a desire to learn,” said Mr Njiru.

The initiative offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of AI, including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing and computer vision.

Eight new generative AI and machine learning courses include advanced courses for tech-savvy learners as well as foundational courses for executives in non-technical roles.

Participants will have access to a wide range of resources, including online courses, hands-on labs, and webinars, all provided free of charge by AWS.

“Artificial Intelligence has the potential to transform industries and revolutionize the way we work and live,” said the Principal Secretary State Department for ICT and Digital Economy Eng John Tanui.

“Today the need for an AI-savvy workforce has never been greater. The Kenyan tech sector continues to be a stable source of growth and economic security in the country and by equipping millions of Kenyans with AI skills, we are not only preparing individuals for the jobs of tomorrow but also driving innovation and economic prosperity for the entire nation.“ [Peter Muiruri]

With the rapid advancement of technology, AI has emerged as a critical driver of innovation across various industries, presenting both opportunities and challenges for individuals seeking to stay competitive in the job market.

AWS is the world’s most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud offering that has expanded its services to support virtually any cloud workload with more than 200 fully-featured services. 

In Kenya, the company continues to invest in digital skills training through the AWS re/Start, a free cloud skills training program designed to support people who are unemployed or underemployed, and who have little technology experience, for careers in cloud computing.

The programme in collaboration with Ajira, E-Mobilis and GetINNOtised has enrolled more than 700 Kenyan youths across the country since 2021.

This year, the first class of displaced learners in Kakuma and Dadaab refugee camps graduated from the program run in cooperation with the Danish Refugee Council.