By Jameson Mutua
Connect Academy today held its inaugural graduation ceremony, celebrating its first cohort of 48 students. The Academy is a joint initiative between Safaricom and the ICT Authority of Kenya.
Launched during the 2024 Connected Africa Summit, the programme aims to bridge Kenya’s growing demand for skilled digital infrastructure professionals. It equips young Kenyans with practical, industry-ready fibre deployment competencies essential for the country’s fast-evolving digital transformation.
Dr. Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom Plc, said the initiative underscores the company’s long-term investment in a digitally empowered nation.
“The Connect Academy represents our commitment to building Kenya’s digital future by investing in technical, future-ready skills in the people who make connectivity possible. Today, this graduating class is stepping into a digitally led future, and we are assured that the future is in good hands,” he said.
The inaugural cohort was drawn from Safaricom’s technician workforce, referrals from the Connected Africa Summit, and community applicants—highlighting the programme’s focus on accessible and inclusive digital upskilling. Over the intensive three-month course, trainees received technical instruction, mentorship from industry experts, and exposure to real-world work settings.
The programme is already delivering strong employment outcomes, with 98% of the graduates absorbed into the job market by Safaricom and other partners.
Zilpher Owiti, Acting CEO of the ICT Authority, said the partnership aligns with national priorities.
“This partnership couldn’t have happened at a more opportune time. As a country, we have a national goal of strengthening the ICT workforce. By ensuring alignment of training with industry needs, the Connect Academy is helping to create a continuous pipeline of skilled technicians who will drive Kenya’s digital infrastructure expansion in the coming years,” she said.
With Cohort 2 set to begin in January, Safaricom and the ICT Authority say they remain committed to expanding pathways for young Kenyans and refining the programme to build a highly skilled workforce ready to advance the country’s digital agenda.
