Kenya is addressing a shortage of advanced digital skills by introducing AI-specific education and training programs in universities, technical institutions, and government initiatives. The Kenya AI Strategy 2025-2030 aims to align learning with industry needs and close the skills gap. This strategy identifies partnerships between government, the private sector, and academia as key to accelerating AI development and building a skilled workforce.
The Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy notes that Kenya has few professionals with advanced digital skills, particularly in AI, coding, big data, cybersecurity, and Internet of Things (IoT). An International Labour Organization (ILO) report highlights the increasing demand for cognitive, socioemotional, digital, and AI skills due to AI adoption. The ILO recommends skills development to shift toward emerging labour market demands, emphasizing digital fluency, analytical thinking, and ethical awareness.
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) has launched a three-month program in AI and advanced coding, with 80 students enrolled. The program, delivered through the Samsung Innovation Campus, combines university-based learning with practical training in coding, programming, and AI. At least 80 learners are expected to benefit each year, with plans to expand to IoT and cybersecurity.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Global Skills Academy has expanded across Kenya's technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system. Over 200 teachers have been upskilled through AI learning pathways, and 23 institutions are being supported by AI-trained educators. The program had reached more than 5,300 beneficiaries by the end of May.
Dr. Lawrence Nderu, Head of the School of Computing and JHUB at JKUAT, emphasizes the importance of linking students to industry, allowing them to apply technical knowledge in practical settings. Former participants, such as Josephat Ochiel, a Regional Service Manager at Samsung Electronics East Africa, attest to the program's impact on their careers.
The government is exploring partnerships to widen access to AI technology, including a planned collaboration with Japanese AI company Sakana AI to develop AI skills through 1,450 digital hubs across the country. This initiative aims to expand AI training beyond universities and increase the number of professionals with AI skills.
As Kenya's technology sector shifts from adopting AI tools to building the people capable of developing, managing, and applying them, the challenge lies in keeping the skills pipeline pace with the technology itself. The growing number of initiatives indicates a commitment to addressing the AI skills gap and preparing the workforce for emerging labour market demands.
Key points
- Kenya is introducing AI-specific education and training programs to address the shortage of advanced digital skills.
- The government is partnering with the private sector and academia to accelerate AI development and build a skilled workforce.
- The AI skills training programs aim to equip learners with practical skills in AI, coding, and other emerging technologies.
