Nairobian technology sector players have launched a “Digital Talent Program” that aims to develop digital skills in the market by taking a sustainable approach to create a healthy digital talent pipeline.
In its first year, the program, which is a partnership between organizations drawn from academia, training partners, tech-hubs, Government as well as industry players, targets to upskill 1,000 participants based on the digital skills currently in high demand. So far, over 30 partners including 6 Universities, 14 Training Partners, 5 Tech-Hubs and community organizations, 7 Government agencies, and 14 industry players including Big-Tech are part of the program.
The program will focus on nine priority skill areas including UI/UX design, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, IoT, Big Data and Analytics, Cyber Security, Cloud Computing, Fintech, Robotics Process Automation and Software Engineering. It will be delivered through a hybrid approach including classroom learning, mentorship and internships for the experiential part of the learning. It will also involve hackathons, fireside chats, guest lecture sessions, incubation, career fairs, annual awards, curriculum reviews, placements and certifications, to name a few.
Partners from academia will provide a pipeline for digital talent as well as the institutional strength and the mandate to facilitate and implement classroom learning. Tech Hubs will also provide a talent pipeline and play a critical role in driving innovation, while training partners will curate digital learning paths that are relevant to industry expectations. Government agencies will enable the program by implementing relevant policies. Industry partners, including big-tech companies, will be the key beneficiaries of the talent pipeline that the program seeks to create, and will also provide coaching and mentorship as well as internship and employment opportunities.
