Amazon Web Services – AWS recently completed a three-day in-person cloud computing training program at the University of Nairobi – UoN. The event aimed to equip young students in Kenya with essential cloud computing skills, helping prepare them for careers in the fast-evolving tech industry. This initiative is part of AWS’s broader effort to close the digital skills gap in Africa.
The program trained 125 first- and second-year students through hands-on sessions, focusing on foundational cloud concepts. These classes were led by AWS instructors and based on the AWS Skills Center curriculum. This curriculum was first launched in South Africa in 2023, marking AWS’s first skills center outside the U.S. It is makes cloud skills training accessible to everyone, especially those without a tech background. Students who couldn’t attend the Nairobi sessions were able to join virtual classes led by AWS instructors.
Cloud computing and AI are essential in the global job market. AWS ensures that learners across Africa are not left behind. Their training, offered at no cost, is helping young people build technical expertise and boost their chances of getting tech jobs.
Building a Skilled Workforce for the Future
The AWS-UoN classroom is part of a larger strategy. This strategy aims to meet the growing need for skills in cloud computing, AI and data science. The training covered six sessions. It includes the series ‘Becoming a Cloud Practitioner’ that targets beginners or those transitioning into tech.
AWS representatives and university leaders emphasized the importance of partnerships like this one. ‘Access to high-quality training is essential to unlocking career opportunities,’ said Nondumiso Zibi, AWS Director for Support Engineering, EMEA. She emphasized AWS’s commitment to helping young people gain the skills they need to thrive in today’s digital economy
The University of Nairobi echoed this commitment. Professor Andrew Kahonge from the Department of Computing and Informatics emphasized that such collaborations actively prepare students for the job market. Professor Leonidah Kerubo stressed the importance of equipping students with practical skills. “We want our students to be market-ready,” she said. “AWS is helping us close the skills gap.”
Students Seized The Opportunity
Students shared how the experience broadened their understanding of cloud computing. Cecilia K’Owiti, a second-year student, said the program helped her see how cloud computing can be used in real life. It opened her eyes to possible career paths. Neville Mwangangi, a fourth-year student, appreciated how the sessions simplified complex topics. The sessions introduced him to roles like cloud solutions architect. Terry Mukundi, also in her fourth year, said the training gave her practical skills in cloud networking, security, and machine learning, skills she plans to apply to her final-year project.
AWS encouraged participants to continue learning through its free platform, AWS Educate, and to pursue certification as AWS Cloud Practitioners to further enhance their credentials.
This initiative reflects AWS’s long-term investment in Africa’s digital future and its dedication to empowering the next generation of tech professionals.
