The strengthening of Kenya’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem (SKIES) has selected eight Universities from Kenya to train rapid tech-skills.

This initiative is part of the Kenya Industry and Entrepreneurship Program (KIEP) funded by the World Bank and Implemented with the State Department of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) with the support of the management firm- Spineberg- E4Impact JV.

Speaking during the grant signing ceremony, State Department for Industry Principal Secretary Dr. Juma Mukhwana said that “The objective of the SKIES Rapid Tech Skills program is clear: to implement a Job Readiness Program for 532 students with 267 selected students for phase 1 and equip them with essential rapid tech skills by the 8 universities in Cyber Security, Software Engineering, Data Science, Entrepreneurship, and Soft Skills.”

This initiative is about catalyzing change, transforming lives, and unlocking doors of opportunity for our youth who are expected to work in various sectors of the economy including the manufacturing sector. It marks a significant step in our commitment to empowering the next generation with the skills necessary to succeed in today’s dynamic technological landscape”.

“In a world where technology drives innovation and growth at an unprecedented pace, programs like the SKIES Rapid Tech Skills initiative are indispensable in bridging the gap between traditional education and industry demands. These universities will provide hands-on training that complements theoretical knowledge, ensuring that our graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the modern job market,” he said.

The SKIES initiative commenced with a call for applications that drew an impressive response of 1,167 rapid tech skills students, showcasing a significant demand for such programs. After a thorough selection process, 267 deserving students from 40 counties have been selected to receive subsidies covering their tuition fees and living expenses from the eight regional universities ensuring access to quality education and skill development.

The eight universities include: Moi University, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Mama Ngina College, Open University of Kenya, University of Mombasa, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenyatta University, and Kibabii University. These universities were selected from a pool of institutions in Kenya to collaborate on the SKIES Rapid Tech Skills program.