Eldoret-based technology hub-EldoHub with the support from the UK Kenya Tech has launched a digital apprenticeship programme targeting tech professionals in the country.
The programme launched Wednesday in partnership with Thunderbird School of Global Management, will equip young tech professionals with the relevant skills they need for the job market.
EldoHub founder and managing director Magdaline Chepkemoi told the Digital Business yesterday that the move is aimed at bridging the skills gap in the industry.
Eldoret-based technology hub-EldoHub with the support from the UK Kenya Tech has launched a digital apprenticeship programme targeting tech professionals in the country.
The programme launched Wednesday in partnership with Thunderbird School of Global Management, will equip young tech professionals with the relevant skills they need for the job market.
EldoHub founder and managing director Magdaline Chepkemoi told the Digital Business yesterday that the move is aimed at bridging the skills gap in the industry.
“Kenya is known as the Silicon Savannah for numerous reasons and what cements this reputation is her youthful, tech savvy population. Whilst this kind of talent can and should be propelling Kenya’s future, the reality is that many techies lack real work practical experience.
"On the other han, businesses that are hiring, want more experienced techies with at least a few years under their belt. How will these junior techies ever get hired without experience?” she paused.
Ms Chepkemoi said the first phase of the project will place 40 junior technology professionals into 40 businesses (traditionally small medium enterprises and tech startups) across Kenya for a three month apprenticeship. EldoHub, she said narrowed their selection to 40 through a series of tests such as aptitude tests and code challenges as well as interviews.
The programme was oversubscribed with over 500 junior tech professionals across 41 counties applying.
“The final 40 include 17 females and 23 males ranging from institutions such as the University of Nairobi to technical colleges and training centers such as Moringa School ," she said.
Some of the professionals that were matched include Esther Mwaniki, a computer scientist skilled in software development, majoring in android, and web application development, who was matched to Ajua Africa's first integrated customer experience company for businesses on the continent to write new code, maintain existing applications, and meet with clients to discuss new projects.
Victor Omondi , a data scientist skilled in software development, machine learning, data visualisation, and and programmingwas also matched to Inuka Africa, a microcredit institution that has experienced challenges in finding local talent in the area of data science and analytics and Artificial Intelligence.
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