Huawei Partners with Kenya TVET to Empower Trainers with AI and Data Skills

The Kenya School of TVET, in collaboration with Huawei Technologies (Kenya) Limited, has successfully concluded the first phase of the “Train the Trainer” program. This initiative, which trained 65 trainers from 58 technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions, marks a significant milestone in equipping Kenya’s ICT educators with advanced skills to meet the demands of a digital economy.

Building Kenya’s Digital Future

The program focused on two key ICT areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Communications, aligning with global trends in Industry 4.0 and the digital economy. Over ten days, trainers received intensive training to enhance their knowledge and practical skills.

The goal is for these trainers to establish Huawei ICT Academies at their institutions, ensuring that the skills they acquire benefit not only their trainees but also local communities. This approach is designed to make Kenya’s ICT workforce competitive globally and position the country as a hub for technological excellence in Africa.

Government’s Commitment

At the program’s closing ceremony, the Principal Secretary for the State Department for TVET emphasized the importance of partnerships in advancing Kenya’s ICT ecosystem.

"The future of Kenya’s economy depends on our ability to equip our youth with the skills necessary to thrive in a digital world. Through this partnership with Huawei, we are creating opportunities for trainers and students while driving innovation and growth in industries across the country," the PS said.

The government also reiterated its dedication to fostering local talent through similar initiatives, announcing plans to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Huawei Technologies. This agreement will establish a long-term framework for ICT talent development in the TVET sector.

Achievements and Historical Context

This program builds on the partnership between Huawei and Kenya’s TVET institutions, which began with a Letter of Intent in July 2021. Since then:

• 11 Huawei ICT Academies have been established.
• In May 2024, the Kenya School of TVET was launched as an Academy Support Center to bolster ICT education across the country.

Additionally, Kenyan trainers have already demonstrated the program’s impact, as seen in the 2024 Huawei ICT Competition held in China, where two trainers, Mr. Orina and Ms. Joyline, won first-place awards. Their success reflects the high standard of training and the potential for student participation in future global competitions.

Five Mandates for Trainers

To ensure the program’s long-term success, trainers have been tasked with key responsibilities:

1. Establish ICT Academies: Trainers will set up and manage Huawei ICT Academies in their institutions.
2. Cascade Knowledge: Extend training to students and local communities.
3. Ensure Technological Relevance: Regularly update training content to match industry trends.
4. Maintain Trainee Data: Accurately track student progress and program outcomes.
5. Provide Progress Reports: Submit regular updates to monitor the program’s effectiveness.

This structured approach aims to create a sustainable and dynamic ICT talent pipeline for Kenya.

Significance of the Initiative

The “Train the Trainer” program is a critical step toward:

• Boosting Digital Skills: Preparing Kenya’s youth for global job markets and Industry 4.0.
• Driving Economic Growth: Enhancing innovation and digital transformation in industries.
• Fostering Innovation: Creating a ripple effect that benefits students, industries, and communities.

With Huawei’s expertise, Kenya’s ICT curriculum will remain industry-relevant, ensuring the country stays at the forefront of technological advancements.

Future Outlook

As the partnership between Huawei and Kenya’s TVET sector deepens, there are clear opportunities for expansion:

• More ICT Academies across the country.
• Greater student involvement in global ICT competitions.
• Strengthened frameworks through the forthcoming MoU with Huawei.

Conclusion

The successful conclusion of the “Train the Trainer” program is a testament to what strategic partnerships can achieve. By empowering trainers with cutting-edge ICT skills, Huawei and the Kenyan government are laying the groundwork for a robust, globally competitive ICT ecosystem. This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of Kenya’s digital economy but also creates opportunities for long-term growth and innovation, positioning the country as a leader in ICT talent development.