Amazon Web Services has introduced ‘AI Ready,’ initiative in Kenya, aiming to empower 2 million individuals with essential artificial intelligence (AI) skills by 2025, enabling them to excel in the digital economy. This initiative now offers free AI skills training to the Kenyan populace.
Robin Njiru, Regional Lead, Public Sector-Sub-Saharan Africa at Amazon Web Services, emphasized the significance of AI, stating, “Artificial intelligence (AI) is the most transformative technology of our generation.
To harness AI’s full potential in addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges, we must ensure that AI education is accessible to all who aspire to learn.”
He further added, “Through our ‘AI Ready’ commitment, we are dedicated to democratizing AI education, creating opportunities for Kenyan professionals today, and paving the way for the next generation to seize the vast opportunities that lie ahead.”
The ‘AI Ready’ initiative features a comprehensive curriculum covering a spectrum of AI topics, including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and more.
With the addition of eight new generative AI and AI/ML courses, the initiative caters to a diverse audience, offering advanced courses for tech enthusiasts and foundational courses for non-technical executives. Participants will have access to a plethora of resources, such as online courses, hands-on labs, and webinars, all provided at no cost by AWS.
Eng. John Tanui, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for ICT & Digital Economy, highlighted the transformative potential of AI in industries and the workforce. He remarked, “The demand for an AI-proficient workforce is at an all-time high.
By equipping millions of Kenyans with AI skills, we are not only preparing individuals for future job roles but also driving innovation and economic growth for the nation.”
In response to the rapidly evolving tech landscape, AWS recognizes AI as a pivotal force for innovation across industries, offering both opportunities and challenges for job seekers. AWS continues its commitment to digital skills training through AWS re/Start, a cloud skills training program tailored for individuals with limited technology experience seeking careers in cloud computing.
Collaborating with Ajira, E-Mobilis, and GetINNOtized, the program has already engaged over 700 Kenyan youths since 2021. Furthermore, AWS, in partnership with the Danish Refugee Council, recently celebrated the graduation of the first class of displaced learners from Kakuma and Dadaab refugee camps, as part of its efforts to make the program more inclusive.
As a part of the ‘AI Ready’ initiative, AWS is democratizing access to generative AI, extending its availability beyond research applications to individuals and businesses of all sizes across Africa. Kenyan individuals interested in joining the ‘AI Ready’ initiative can access more information on available courses, resources, and enrollment details through this link.
