A recent study by Nairobi-based tech firm Moringa indicates that Kenya's drive to expand digital transformation is moving faster than the ability of its labour force to meet emerging technology demands. The research surveyed 350 alumni of Moringa's training programmes and found that while many graduates entered higher-income brackets, they still lack practical experience.
The study revealed that internships were the most common entry point for new graduates, accounting for 29.1% of first job opportunities. This highlights the importance of on-the-job exposure for new graduates. Among alumni who had no income before joining Moringa, 69.9% reported earning an income at the time of the survey.
Moringa's chief executive, Nikki Germany, stressed that technology training must go beyond technical skills to include experience, communication, and commercial awareness. The report also surveyed 166 senior executives across eight sectors, revealing that 72% view digital transformation as a top strategic priority.
However, 73% of executives remain at early or developing stages of workforce capability maturity. Artificial intelligence emerged as a particular challenge, with 48% of executives citing AI engineering as the hardest capability to develop. This figure rose to 62% among large enterprises.
The study found that although 77% of organisations use online platforms for employee training, only 16% rate their approach as very effective. This highlights a gap in the impact of corporate upskilling programmes. Employers identified practical, hands-on training aligned with business needs and flexible learning arrangements as key factors for improving workforce capability.
The report noted diversification in technology careers, with 20.2% of eligible alumni reporting they operate or co-own a business. This reflects growing entrepreneurial activity among graduates. Among alumni, 22.7% earn at least Sh100,000 a month, indicating a significant increase in earning potential after training.
The study's findings suggest that Kenya's digital transformation ambitions require a workforce with a broader range of skills. To address this gap, training programmes must focus on practical experience and business acumen. By doing so, Kenya can ensure its workforce is equipped to drive digital transformation and economic growth.
Key points
- Kenya's digital transformation drive is outpacing its workforce's skills, with gaps in AI and practical training limiting employer outcomes.
- The study found that internships and practical experience are crucial for new graduates to acquire the skills required by employers.
- Employers identified practical, hands-on training aligned with business needs and flexible learning arrangements as key factors for improving workforce capability.
