In a transformative initiative aimed at addressing the skills gap in Kenya’s burgeoning digital economy, the Kenya Chapter of the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) will equip 250 recent graduates with vital technological skills. This program, valued at Ksh 58 million, is set to be a significant step toward building a future-ready workforce in Kenya.
The graduates, selected from three Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions Sigalagala National Polytechnic, Kabete Technical Training Institute, and Pwani TVET will receive training in four key areas: cybersecurity, data protection, blockchain technologies, and artificial intelligence. The training, which spans 18 months, is part of the Inspiring Growth and Nurturing Innovation through Technology Empowerment (IGNITE) program.
Addressing the Skills Gap
Despite Kenya’s significant progress in producing university and TVET graduates annually, employers continue to cite a lack of skilled professionals in emerging technologies. The IGNITE program seeks to close this gap, aligning educational outcomes with industry demands to enhance employability and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Mercy Omollo, the President of ISACA Kenya Chapter, emphasized the transformative potential of this initiative:
“We are excited to be at the forefront of a transformative project that will shape Kenya’s future in the digital economy. Our collaboration with Scratch and Script Company and the Africa Blockchain Institute strengthens our capability to operate in powerful consortiums, paving the way for future partnerships and growth.”
Strategic Partnerships for Impact
The program is being implemented in collaboration with Scratch and Script Company Limited and the Africa Blockchain Institute (ABI), ensuring a robust framework for skill acquisition and capacity building. In addition to the 250 students, the program will train 20 instructors from the participating institutions, enhancing institutional capabilities to sustain similar initiatives in the future.
According to Brencil Kaimba, Senior Vice President of Product Strategy at Scratch and Script, this partnership is a win-win for all stakeholders:
“Our partnership will equip students and educators with the tools to excel in the digital economy, creating outcomes that benefit not only the youth and TVET institutions but also employers seeking a skilled and future-ready workforce.”
Funding and Support
The initiative is supported by a Ksh 48 million grant from the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD), supplemented by Ksh 9.5 million in contributions from the partner organizations. This funding will ensure access to state-of-the-art training resources and industry-relevant curricula for participants.
Timileyin Arowosola, Director at the Africa Blockchain Institute, highlighted the program’s broader vision:
“By fostering innovation and nurturing a strong foundation in blockchain, we are paving the way for a new generation of African leaders to drive impactful change and propel Africa’s digital economy to new heights. Eventually, we aim to unlock potential, fuel creativity, and create a vibrant ecosystem where skills can thrive and impacts can be amplified.”
Enhancing Employment and Entrepreneurship
The IGNITE program is designed not only to equip students with technical skills but also to nurture an entrepreneurial mindset. With a blend of theoretical and practical training, the initiative seeks to increase participants’ employment chances while encouraging them to explore innovative business opportunities.
Building Kenya’s Digital Future
As Kenya continues to position itself as a hub for digital innovation in Africa, initiatives like the IGNITE program are crucial. By investing in human capacity development, ISACA Kenya and its partners are laying the groundwork for a thriving digital economy powered by skilled professionals.
This effort underscores the importance of collaboration between educational institutions, industry players, and development agencies to achieve sustainable growth. With the IGNITE program, Kenya is set to take a significant step toward realizing its digital transformation goals while empowering the next generation of tech leaders.
