Tech Skills Training: ALX Empowers 6,000 Youth, Launches New Hubs

African Leadership International’s ALX, the leading tech skills training provider in Africa, has enrolled over 6,000 young Kenyans for its new tech training programs, showcasing the growing interest in technological skills and knowledge among the country’s youth. This significant enrollment comes as ALX expands its reach across the continent, with over 32,000 new tech learners joining programs in eight African countries.

The Kenyan cohort, comprising 6,322 individuals, will embark on training in a suite of newly launched all-tech programs offered by ALX. These programs include Data Science, Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, Salesforce Administrator, and a blended learning Software Engineering program. Notably, more than half of the new learners have chosen to study data-related courses, indicating the increasing demand for data science and analytics skills in the job market.

ALX’s founder, Fred Swaniker, emphasized the potential of Africa’s young talent in addressing the global shortage of technology skills. Swaniker stated, “By the end of this century, 40% of the world’s population will be African. Yet Africa only has 3% of the world’s software engineers. Given its abundance of young talent, we see Africa as well-positioned to solve the massive global shortage of technology skills.”

In addition to the enrollment milestone, ALX Kenya has announced the opening of new tech hubs in Nairobi, marking the start of ALX’s blended learning model. These tech hubs aim to address the infrastructural challenges faced by many students by providing high-speed internet and stable electricity in accessible co-working spaces. The hubs will serve as productive environments for peer support, training, networking, and professional development.

Peter Muriithii, General Manager at ALX Kenya and The ROOM, explained, “Our new tech hubs will enable deepened training, cultivate growth, and build professional competencies needed for the ever-changing world of work. We intend the hubs to be a space where learners will be developed into well-rounded tech professionals, equipped with not only technical skills but also the soft skills that are crucial to succeed in high-growth industries.”

To welcome the thousands of new learners, ALX organized Karibu “Orientation” ceremonies as part of the onboarding activities. The first cohorts of learners will receive training in high-demand skills to prepare them for successful careers in the global digital economy.

Through a partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, ALX aims to address the predicted worldwide tech talent shortfall of over 85 million people by 2030 by building the largest pool of trained technical professionals in Africa. Since 2021, more than 85,000 learners have graduated from ALX, with approximately 85% of them finding employment within six months of completing their training. ALX also offers lifelong learning, mentorship, and career opportunities for its graduates.

Reeta Roy, President of the Mastercard Foundation, highlighted the importance of partnerships with organizations like ALX in advancing financial inclusion and education in Africa. She stated, “Together we can catalyze growth and the role of Africa in solving global challenges.”

ALX recognizes the significance of soft skills alongside technical skills in an increasingly automated workplace. Soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, communication, collaboration, and leadership are crucial for professionals seeking to future-proof their careers. ALX’s new all-tech programs are designed to equip learners with the most in-demand hard and soft skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

ALX’s expansion and enrolment numbers in Kenya demonstrate the increasing interest and demand for tech training among young Kenyans. As Africa continues to harness its talent and bridge the tech skills gap, the continent is poised to play a significant role in shaping the global digital economy.