Amazon Web Services Avails Free AI Skills Training to Kenyans

Kenya’s technical and non-technical talent pool can benefit from free artificial intelligence training by AWS..

Robin Njiru - AWS Regional Lead Public Sector East West and Central Africa speaking at the Connected Africa Summit at Uhuru Gardens. 

Amazon Web Services has announced availability of its initiative, 'AI Ready,' in Kenya. Designed to equip 2 million people by 2025 with free and essential artificial intelligence (AI) skills to thrive in the digital economy, this initiative now provides free AI skills training to Kenyans.

“Artificial intelligence (AI) is the most transformative technology of our generation. If we are going to unlock the full potential of AI to tackle Africa’s most challenging problems, we need to make AI education accessible to anyone with a desire to learn,” said Robin Njiru, Regional Lead, Public Sector-Sub-Saharan Africa of Amazon Web Services. "Through our 'AI Ready' commitment, we are on a mission to democratize AI education and open opportunities for Kenyans in the workforce today and help the next generation benefit from the tremendous opportunity ahead.”

The 'AI Ready' initiative offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of AI, including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and more. The eight new generative AI and AI/ML courses offer something for everyone, including advanced courses for tech-savvy learners as well as foundational courses for executives in non-technical roles. Participants will have access to a wide range of resources, including online courses, hands-on labs, and webinars, all provided free of charge by AWS.

"Artificial Intelligence has the potential to transform industries and revolutionize the way we work and live. Today the need for an AI-savvy workforce has never been greater. The Kenyan tech sector continues to be a stable source of growth and economic security in the country and by equipping millions of Kenyans with AI skills, we are not only preparing individuals for the jobs of tomorrow but also driving innovation and economic prosperity for the entire nation" said Eng. John Tanui the Principal Secretary State Department for ICT & Digital Economy.

With the rapid advancement of technology, AI has emerged as a critical driver of innovation across various industries, presenting both opportunities and challenges for individuals seeking to stay competitive in the job market. AWS is continuing to invest in digital skills training by providing AWS re/Start, a free cloud skills training program designed to support people who are unemployed or underemployed, and who have little technology experience, for careers in cloud computing. In collaboration with Ajira, E-Mobilis and GetINNOtized, the program has enrolled more than 700 Kenyan youths across the country since 2021. To make the program even more inclusive, this year the first class of displaced learners in Kakuma and Dadaab refugee camps graduated from the program, created by AWS in cooperation with the Danish Refugee Council.

As part of the 'AI Ready' commitment, AWS is democratizing access to generative AI by taking its availability beyond the realm of research and making it available to people and businesses of all sizes across Africa. Kenyans interested in participating in the 'AI Ready' initiative can visit this link for more information on available courses, resources, and enrolment details.

April 23, 2024