Huawei launches digital skills enhancement contest in Kenya

Chinese technology firm, Huawei, on Monday launched a competition to boost digital literacy skills among Kenyan youth enrolled in universities and mid-level colleges.

The Huawei ICT Competition 2018-2019, first of its kind in Kenya, aims to provide high-end skills in modern information and communication technologies (ICT) to the burgeoning youth in the East African Nation.

"Kenya is one of the leading countries in Africa for producing some fantastic technology innovations. There are many highly talented technology students and graduates which we know will be able to compete strongly on a global stage," said Su Shuqi, the training and Certification Manager of Huawei Kenya.

The previous edition of Huawei ICT contest attracted 40,000 applicants from 800 universities in 32 countries globally while the 2018-2019 version is expected to attract 50,000 contestants in 50 countries during the preliminary stage.

In Kenya, the contest will be embedded in Huawei's ICT Academy program that has roped in leading institutions of higher learning to advance digital skills among the youth.

"We are keen to see Kenyan students representing their country in the international stage, and we are sure they will benefit a lot from participating in various rounds of competition," Su remarked.

So far, 12 Kenyan universities are part of the Huawei's initiative to enhance uptake of ICT learning and accelerate the country's transition to knowledge based economy.

Samuel Kinuthia, a lecturer and Huawei Certified Academy Instructor at Nairobi-based Zetech University, said that students have embraced the ICT skills contest given its potential to enhance their employability in the digital economy.

"The response for the Huawei Competition from students was very good. They participated in the registration process and are excited with the exposure and opportunities they will get during and after the competition," said Kinuthia.

He said Kenyan contestants were keen to participate in the international finals of the 2018-2019 Huawei ICT competition to be held in China.