Zetech University is joining forces with Kenya’s Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy. This partnership aims to equip the youth of Kiambu County with essential technological skills, paving the way for enhanced employment opportunities and job creation through advanced digital ICT hubs.
The collaboration is part of a broader strategy to complement the government’s ongoing digital transformation agenda, which seeks to provide comprehensive digital skills, e-services, and online opportunities for young people across Kenya. Vice Chancellor Professor Njenga Munene of Zetech University expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the university’s role in advancing this vision.
“We seek to complement the government’s program, which is part of the digital transformation agenda aimed at providing digital skills, e-services, and online opportunities to young people across the country,” Prof. Munene said. The initiative will take place at Zetech University’s cutting-edge technological labs, designed to support the rollout of the government’s Jitume Hubs. These hubs are part of a larger national effort to integrate digital technology into various aspects of daily life and work.
The training programs at these hubs will cover a range of vital skills, including transcription, digital marketing, virtual assistance, data entry and management, and online writing. This diverse curriculum is tailored to address current skill gaps in the job market, equipping participants with the competencies needed to excel in the digital economy. By focusing on these areas, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between the demand for digital skills and the availability of qualified individuals.
Prof. Munene underscored the importance of this initiative, noting that the region faces a significant shortage of critical tech skills, which is impeding local businesses and hindering economic growth. “Individuals and companies must stay abreast of technological disruptions, trends, problems, and opportunities to make informed and sustainable career, commercial, and institutional decisions,” he explained. As the digital era continues to evolve, with advancements in digital governments, digital economies, digital currencies, and digital societies, leveraging technology is essential for transformation across various sectors, including health, transport, urban living, and environmental conservation.
Kiambu Deputy Governor Rosemary Kirika, who participated in the event, challenged Zetech University to extend its digital empowerment efforts to local businesspersons as well. She emphasized the need for businesses to upscale their operations through digital means, which aligns with the government’s vision for widespread digital integration.
The initiative is part of Kenya’s Digital Masterplan 2022-2032, a comprehensive framework governing the systematic delivery of ICT infrastructure, services, and skill development. The Masterplan outlines a 10-year strategy for ICT projects, focusing on 19 key initiatives designed to advance the country’s digital transformation. One of the plan’s major goals is to establish ICT hubs in all 1,450 wards across Kenya, with the Jitume Hubs playing a crucial role in this endeavor.
To date, numerous Jitume Hubs have been launched, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing digital literacy among the youth. Members of Parliament are actively supporting and accelerating this initiative to ensure that digital access and literacy reach all corners of the country.
The government’s ambitious target includes creating jobs for at least one million digital workers within the next five years. This goal is supported by increased investments in national broadband and digital hubs, which are integral to the Digital Superhighway—a cornerstone of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Zetech University’s partnership with the Ministry represents a pivotal step in bridging the digital divide and preparing the youth for the future job market. As technology continues to advance, initiatives like these are crucial in ensuring that individuals and businesses are equipped to thrive in an increasingly digital world. This collaboration not only aims to enhance career prospects for young people but also contributes to the overall economic development and growth of the region.
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