The Kenyan government and Huawei Kenya today launched an independent evaluation report of digital skills training provided by DigiTruck program. 

Launched in 2019 in Kenya under Huawei’s TECH4ALL initiative, the DigiTruck is a mobile, solar-powered classroom equipped with Internet connectivity, laptops, and smartphones. Converted from a used shipping container mounted on the back of a truck, the DigiTruck travels to remote communities in Kenya, providing free training in digital skills to youth, empowering them to participate more fully in the digital economy.

The report was launched at the Connected Africa Summit by Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, Eliud Owalo, and Huawei Kenya Deputy CEO Steven Zhang. During the opening of the Summit, H.E. President Ruto himself highlighted the findings of the report and praised the program: “This is the impact of a simple intervention in terms of empowering the youth, and it affirms the promise of our collaborative approach and the power of partnerships in achieving ambitious goals.” 

“To facilitate optimal uptake of digital infrastructure it is imperative that we have commensurate level of digital skilling; that is why this DigiTruck program comes in handy because through this program we are able to reach very remote areas that ordinarily we would not access for purposes of digital skilling” said Mr. Eliud Owalo, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communication & The Digital Economy. He continued: “So we want to thank Huawei for this innovative digital skilling program and we want to assure you that we will continue working with you in the program of digital skilling as we roll out our digital transformation agenda.”

Each course lasts 40 hours, and provides training in digital skills and soft skills like starting an online business, writing resumes, and applying for jobs online. A survey 800 of the 4,000+ youth trained over four years revealed significant positive tangible outcomes for beneficiaries. Some of the key findings are:

• 93% of respondents reported enhanced work capabilities.
• 79% stated that they passed on their digital skills to others in their communities, fostering a culture of empowerment.
• Respondents reported a 6% decline in the unemployment rate and a 7% decline in self-employment.
• 35% of respondents attribute an income boost due to starting a business with their new digital skills.

“From its inception, the aim of the DigiTruck was to reach remote areas; to reach youth who normally don’t have many opportunities; and to reach all across the country,” said Steven Zhang, Deputy CEO of Huawei Kenya. “The aim of this DigiTruck is not only to provide digital skills, but also to spread the message about the importance of digital skills and to rally others to our cause.”

As Kenya embraces the digital age, the need for digital skills has evolved from a luxury to a necessity. 

The DigiTruck initiative, a collaborative effort between The Ministry of Information, Communication & the Digital Economy, Huawei and other partners, has been at the forefront of empowering Kenyan youth with these essential skills. 

Attached photos of the launch with CS Owalo along with ICT Ministers from Lesotho, Sahrawi and South Sudan; PS ICT John Tanui along with PSs from Malawi, Sahrawi, South Sudan and Zimbabwe; Chair of the Communications Authority, CEO of the ICT Authority. Accompanying the government officials were Huawei Deputy CEO for Public Affairs, Steven Zhang, MD for Enterprise Business Kevin Wen, Ian Korir, the Huawei DigiTruck Project Manager and youth who have been trained on the DigiTruck.

Also Read: Huawei Offers DigiTruck Robotics Training at Kenya Science and Engineering Fair  

Huawei Kenya has held a successful roadshow at Kenyatta University, aimed at promoting its flagship CSR program, The Seeds for the Future. The event held at the University highlighted the return of the program to its traditional physical format after three years of virtual implementation. 

The Seeds for the Future program, now in its 10^th year in Kenya, is designed to nurture young ICT talent by providing selected students with a unique opportunity for digital skills learning, an opportunity to engage in global competition termed as the ‘Tech4Good Competition, international learning and cultural exchange. This year’s program offers students the chance to undergo a one-week digital training course in South Africa, as well as additional training opportunities.

In addition to the South Africa trip, selected students will have a one-week training on Huawei certification courses and another one-week local training in Nairobi. These opportunities are aimed at equipping the students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the ICT industry.

Speaking at the event, Ian Korir from Huawei Kenya, highlighted the importance of the program in empowering young Kenyan talent. “Seeds for the Future is not just a training program; it is a life-changing experience for the students. It exposes them to cutting-edge technologies and global best practices, preparing them for successful careers in the ICT industry,” he said.

The roadshow aimed to encourage Kenyatta University students to apply for the program before the deadline on April 30th. However, Huawei Kenya also extends an invitation to other university students to register for the program before the deadline through the following link: Registration Link.

Also Read: Digischool: Lessons in Connecting Kenya’s Schools

Huawei Technologies Kenya has partnered with Uasin Gishu County’s Women Rep Foundation to provide free and comprehensive digital literacy training for its youth.

The Glady’s Boss Foundation in collaborative effort with Huawei will provide a DigiTruck training program in the county in order to bridge the digital divide and equip the youth with essential skills to use in the ever evolving digital space.

“The training program, scheduled to run for the next six weeks, will cover fundamental aspects of digital literacy, empowering participants with knowledge and skills that are increasingly vital in today’s technology-driven world,” said Woman Rep for Uasin Gishu, Gladys Boss.

The training program will be conducted by experienced trainers from Computers for Schools Kenya and will ensure the participants receive high quality content.

“Upon successful completion of the training, participants will receive certificates recognized in the industry, enhancing their employability and opening doors to various opportunities in the digital landscape, both online and physically,” added Boss.

According to Huawei Technologies said they are committed to empowering communities through technology education and the collaboration with the Gladys Boss Foundation reflects a shared vision of creating a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the youth in Uasin Gishu County.

Now Read: DigiTruck: Bringing Digital Skills to Senegal’s Young People