AWS Launches AI Ready Initiative In Kenya

The World Economic Forum has estimated that artificial intelligence (AI) will replace some 85 million jobs by 2025. Will yours be one of them? If you have thought of pre-empting this future, or, simply, preparing for it, then we have great news.

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

“AI is the most transformative technology of our generation. For us to unlock its full potential 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, Amazon Web Services. “Through our AI Ready commitment, we are on a mission to democratise 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 and 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.

“AI has the potential to transform industries and revolutionise 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. 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 John Tanui, 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 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 programme 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 programme has enrolled more than 700 Kenyan youths countrywide since 2021. To make the programme even more inclusive, this year the first class of displaced learners in Kakuma and Dadaab refugee camps graduated from the programme, created by AWS in cooperation with the Danish Refugee Council.