ICT ministry implores sector to accelerate digital transformation through customised training

Speaking during the Presidential DigiTalent Programme (PDTP) certification ceremony of over 400 graduates at the Chandaria Auditorium in the University of Nairobi, ICT Principal Secretary (PS) John Tanui addressed government efforts to improve technology training, in partnership with tech companies.

According to Tanui, the Digital Master Plan 2022-2032 outlines and prepares skilling opportunities for youth in the technology sector.

“We have many other policies, even the AI strategy we launched recently, talent development is at the centre of it,” said Tanui Cohort 9 program graduates on Thursday.

PS Tanui also cited research, development and innovation initiatives that will guide the youth as they chart their career paths.

Ms. Mary Kerema, the Secretary ICT, E-Government and Digital Economy in the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy, urged graduates to use the training as a stepping stone into the future and that the government will avail itself to support them in their endeavours.

“This training that is offered by Huawei should not be in vain, it should be a steppingstone to a brighter future for your life and as young people, I always say that it is a time that you don’t become a job taker but a job creator,” said Kerema.

She urged the youth to utilise their skills, as the government will assist them with scaling up and marketing their innovation.

The ICT Authority, a crucial player in the partnership between the Kenyan government and Huawei, through its Acting CEO Zilpha Owiti highlighted the need for mentorship as digital opportunities and technology continue on an upward trend.

“The emerging technology and the digital opportunities continue to require high skill levels, mentorship and application of software and management,” said Zilpha.

She praised Huawei’s globally certified programs for the impact that it has had on Kenyan youths, especially those with an interest in technology.

“Any program which guides the young people and facilitates them to acquire relevant skills to enable them to perform effectively, compete and grow needs to be supported and enriched,” emphasised Zilpha.

Huawei ICT Academy’s Kenya Lead, Michael Kamau, also echoed the ministry’s sentiments and added that the Asian tech giant is bent on having local talent to be the driving force for Kenya’s digital future.

“Through the PDTP and other initiatives, we have committed to sharing knowledge and transferring skills to Kenyan youth, ensuring that local talent powers Kenya’s digital future,” said Kamau.