Connect Academy has marked a major milestone as its first cohort of 48 students graduated from the three-month programme, with 98% already securing jobs at Safaricom and partner organisations.
Launched during the 2024 Connected Africa Summit, Connect Academy was established by Safaricom and the ICT Authority of Kenya to meet the country’s growing need for skilled digital infrastructure professionals.
Connect Academy Driving Kenya’s Digital Skills Growth
Safaricom CEO Dr. Peter Ndegwa celebrated the achievement, noting that Connect Academy is a key pillar in shaping Kenya’s digital future.
“The Connect Academy to us 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 group included trainees selected from Safaricom’s technician base, referrals from the Connected Africa Summit, and community applicants reflecting Connect Academy’s mission to promote inclusive digital upskilling.
Over the course of the programme, students received hands-on fibre deployment training, industry mentorship, and real-world exposure.
With 98% of graduates already absorbed into employment, Academy is demonstrating strong results in shaping job-ready technical talent.
Zilpher Owiti, Ag. CEO of the ICT Authority, highlighted the programme’s national impact:
“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 Academy is helping to create a continuous pipeline of skilled technicians who will drive Kenya’s digital infrastructure expansion in the coming years.”
As Connect Academy prepares for its second cohort starting in January, Safaricom and the ICT Authority reaffirm their commitment to expanding opportunities for young people and strengthening Kenya’s digital workforce.
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