AWS Launches First Cloud Training Center in Kenya

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has taken a big step to improve cloud computing education in Kenya. The company opened its first AWS Skills Center community classroom at the University of Nairobi (UoN). The program started with a three-day training session for 125 first- and second-year students. The goal was to teach them the basics of cloud computing.

The training was designed for students with little or no IT experience. It covered important cloud concepts and gave them skills for future jobs in technology. AWS used instructor-led classes to make sure students understood the material.

Nondumiso Zibi, AWS Director for Support Engineering in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), said this program helps young Africans gain digital skills.

“We are excited to work with the University of Nairobi to bring AWS training to Kenyan students,” she said. “Cloud computing is key to digital growth. High-quality training is important for career opportunities. This program is part of our plan to give young people the technical skills they need for today’s job market.”

AWS Skills Center Expands to Kenya

The AWS Skills Center started in South Africa in 2023. It offers cloud training to people without technical backgrounds. The program includes both online and in-person classes.

Now, AWS is bringing this training to Kenya. This move will help meet the growing demand for cloud, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data skills in East Africa.

University of Nairobi Supports the Program

University leaders said the AWS partnership helps students prepare for the digital economy.

Professor Andrew Kahonge, Chair of the Department of Computing and Informatics, said the training gives students real-world skills.

“The future of work is digital,” he said. “Working with AWS helps our students learn skills that match industry needs.”

Professor Leonidah Kerubo, Dean of the department, said the university wants students to be job-ready.

“We want our students to meet industry standards,” she said. “That’s why we work with companies like AWS. This ensures they learn the latest tech skills.”

Long-Term Plan for Kenya’s Tech Growth

The AWS classroom at UoN is not just a short-term project. AWS wants to build a strong talent pool in Kenya. The goal is to train more people in cloud computing to support Africa’s digital growth.

Cloud computing is now a major part of economic growth. It helps businesses expand and governments improve services.

Why This Matters for Kenya

Kenya is known as East Africa’s tech hub. With a young population and many startups, the country is a leader in technology development.

According to the Communications Authority of Kenya, over 46 million people use the internet. But there is still a big need for skills in cloud computing, data analysis, and machine learning.

AWS’s training program is a direct response to this need. As more companies use cloud technology, they need workers who can manage these systems.

Kenya’s Rising Demand for Cloud Skills

Businesses and government agencies in Kenya are moving to digital systems. Cloud computing is now used in many areas, including:

• E-commerce
• Mobile banking
• Healthcare technology
• Digital farming

But there are not enough skilled workers in cloud technology. Many companies struggle to find people who understand cloud systems, cybersecurity, and data management.

To fix this, big tech companies like AWS, Microsoft, and Google are investing in training programs across Africa.

In 2022, Kenya’s Ministry of ICT started the Ajira Digital Program. This program helps young people learn digital skills for online jobs. Private sector programs, like AWS’s training, add more industry-specific skills.

A Model for Other African Countries

The partnership between AWS and the University of Nairobi could be an example for other African schools. If more universities work with tech companies, students will get better training for global jobs.

As technology changes the job market, cloud skills will be very important. Kenya is working to stay ahead in Africa’s digital growth. With more training and partnerships, the country can build a strong tech workforce for the future.

Conclusion

AWS’s new Skills Center in Kenya is a big step for cloud education. By training students at the University of Nairobi, AWS is helping build a skilled workforce. This will support Kenya’s growing tech industry and digital economy.

With continued investment in education and partnerships with tech companies, Kenya can lead Africa’s digital transformation. Programs like this will prepare young people for high-demand jobs in cloud computing and other tech fields.

The future of work is digital, and Kenya is making sure its students are ready.