NAIROBI — The Presidential DigiTalent Program (PDTP) has resumed in-person training for the first time since early 2020, marking a major step in Kenya’s digital skills development efforts. The physical phase for the ninth cohort officially began Monday at the University of Nairobi, with support from the Information Communication Technology Authority and Huawei Kenya.
Zilpher Owiti, Acting CEO of the ICT Authority, presided over the launch, calling it a “clear sign of renewed commitment to practical, skills-based learning.” She noted that this session, running from July 7 to July 18, focuses on strengthening Kenya’s ICT talent pipeline through structured, hands-on training.
The program targets recent graduates and is designed to boost their employability by equipping them with market-ready technical skills and professional mentorship. Since its inception, PDTP has trained over 3,300 interns, with more than 2,200 having secured roles in both government and the private sector.
“These young professionals are not just job seekers. They are the minds behind key digitization projects including Huduma Number, the Konza Data Center, NTSA digital services, and the Digital Literacy Program,” Owiti said.
In this current training phase, 400 interns are split into two advanced certification tracks. The Network and Cybersecurity Path, which includes Huawei’s HCIA-Datacom certification, has enrolled 165 participants. The Cloud and Artificial Intelligence Path, covering HCIA-Cloud Service and HCIA-AI certifications, is training more than 200.
Michael Kamau, Huawei ICT Academy Manager, emphasized the importance of real-world readiness. “We are equipping interns with practical skills in cloud computing, AI, and data communication competencies that define today’s ICT jobs,” he said.
Huawei has trained over 2,400 PDTP interns since the program began and has fully sponsored the certification exam fees for Cohort IX through voucher support.
Huawei Kenya’s Policy and Partnerships Director, Adam Lane, said, “Success in today’s tech space depends on adaptability and continuous learning. This program gives interns a real foothold in the digital economy.”
University of Nairobi Dean of Students, Dr. Johnson Kinyua, welcomed the return of on-site sessions, stating the university remains committed to nurturing ambition and innovation through strategic partnerships.
Top-performing interns will also be considered for Huawei’s advanced certification sponsorship under the HCIP (Huawei Certified ICT Professional) track.
The PDTP is a flagship initiative under Kenya’s broader digital strategy, aimed at addressing youth unemployment and building local ICT expertise to support national development goals.
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