The International Business Training College (IBTC) has expanded its data centre workforce development programme to Kenya through its Data Centre Academy. This move aims to equip engineering and technology graduates with the necessary skills for employment in Kenya's growing data centre industry. The programme is supported by Schneider Electric University, the Africa Data Centres Association (ADCA), and other industry partners. It was formalised during ITW & Datacloud Africa in Nairobi.
The programme in Kenya builds on successful programmes already established in South Africa and Nigeria. It combines technical training, professional certification, and practical industry exposure to address critical skills shortages across Africa's data centre ecosystem. Participants will undertake the Data Centre Certified Associate (DCCA I) training using curriculum provided through Schneider Electric University. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the data centre industry.
Steve Santini, Vice President, Secure Power, Sub-Saharan Africa at Schneider Electric, highlighted the importance of the programme. He stated that the expansion of Africa's digital economy is increasing the need for qualified data centre professionals. Building a sustainable talent pipeline is critical to supporting the growth of digital infrastructure across the continent. The partnership with IBTC and ADCA will help provide engineers and technicians with the technical knowledge needed.
The programme will be delivered through IBTC's "source, train, place" model, which combines recruitment, structured training, certification, and links to employment opportunities. Following the initial DCCA I training, participants will have opportunities to progress towards further industry certification and practical experience. This model ensures that graduates are not only trained but also have a clear path to employment.
ADCA will provide industry leadership and governance support, while companies including IMEX and IX Africa are expected to contribute to practical training and exposure to operational data centre environments. This collaboration between training institutions, technology providers, and industry organisations is crucial in developing the workforce needed by the sector. IBTC Chief Executive Officer Nikki Maritz emphasised the importance of such partnerships.
The IBTC Data Centre Academy's expansion to Kenya is a significant step in addressing the skills gap in the data centre industry. By providing engineering and technology graduates with the necessary skills and practical experience, the programme aims to support the growth of digital infrastructure across Africa. The programme's success in South Africa and Nigeria serves as a promising indicator of its potential impact in Kenya.
The collaboration between IBTC, Schneider Electric University, ADCA, and other industry partners is a testament to the commitment to developing a sustainable talent pipeline in Africa's data centre ecosystem. With the programme's comprehensive approach and the support of industry leaders, it is poised to make a positive impact on the growth of the digital economy in Kenya and across the continent.
Key points
- The programme combines technical training, professional certification, and practical industry exposure to address critical skills shortages.
- The expansion of Africa's digital economy is driving the need for qualified data centre professionals.
- The programme will be delivered through IBTC's "source, train, place" model, ensuring a clear path to employment for graduates.
