In a bold effort to advance digital literacy and economic empowerment in Kenya, Stanbic Kenya Foundation alongside our partners, American Tower subsidiary, ATC Kenya (ATC Kenya) and Microsoft Corporation have and continue to implement relevant and innovative digital skills programs across Kenya. Through the platform www.futurenidigital.org, we have bridged the digital skills gap and positioned women, youth and small businesses for sustained growth in a highly digitized world. This initiative is part of our combined broader mission to foster job creation and enterprise development.
Empowering Communities Through Collaboration
The Future Ni Digital program accessed through www.futurenidigital.org is implemented through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, VTCs, and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) across various counties. It leverages local learning and community ecosystems to ensure youth and women gain essential digital skills, enabling them to participate more effectively in the global economy.
“According to statistics by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, Kenya has a youthful population with over 76% aged 35 years and below. Many of them are not gainfully employed. Through www.futurenidigital.org they can acquire proficiency skills that will enable them to take advantage of the digital economy. By working with partners like Microsoft and American Tower, we aim to bridge the digital divide and empower communities to competitively participate in the economy. So far, we have reached over 230,000 youth, women, and small businesses through digital skills and entrepreneurship training with the tools and skills they need to succeed.” Said Pauline Mbayah, Head, Stanbic Kenya Foundation.
George Odenyo, CEO of ATC Kenya, highlighted the importance of connectivity. “American Tower is committed to building a more connected Kenya. This partnership ensures that trainers and trainees in TVET institutions have access to state-of-the-art devices, high-speed internet connectivity and digital learning tools. Through our Digital Communities initiative, we are dedicated to fostering a digital inclusive society.”
Impact to Date
Since its launch, the program has already delivered transformative results. 237,102 trainees across the country have completed the digital skills training, with several earning Microsoft certifications. Recent graduations in Kakamega, Kisumu, Busia, Kisii, Taita Taveta, Kilifi and Kwale celebrated the achievements of trainees many of whom shared inspiring testimonials about how the training has enhanced their ability to access government services, grow their businesses, and seize global opportunities.
The Future Ni Digital initiative (www.futurenidigital.org), also aligns with the Kenyan government’s digital transformation agenda, positioning \ communities to drive economic growth from the grassroots.
“Our partnership with county governments is essential to scaling this impact,” added Ms Mbayah. “By aligning with the local leadership, we ensure that digital skilling meets the unique needs of communities, enabling them to maximize productivity and participate meaningfully in the digital economy.”
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