New 12-Week AI and Data Analytics Fellowship Targets Kenya’s Growing Digital Skills Gap as Demand for AI Talent Surges Globally
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to reshape industries, jobs, and economies worldwide, the KPC Foundation and Power Learn Project (PLP) have launched the Inuka Tech Fellowship, a transformative initiative aimed at equipping young Kenyans with industry-ready skills in AI, data analytics, and operational technology.
The launch, held at iHub Nairobi, comes at a critical time for Africa’s workforce transformation. According to the World Economic Forum, nearly 44% of workers’ skills are expected to be disrupted within the next five years due to advancements in AI and automation.
At the same time, LinkedIn’s Future of Work report identifies AI and data analytics among the fastest-growing skill categories globally.Despite this growing demand, employers across Africa continue to face a shortage of job-ready digital talent, while millions of young people remain unemployed or underemployed.
The Inuka Tech Fellowship seeks to bridge this gap through a fully sponsored, immersive 12-week in-person programme built on a practical, apprenticeship-style learning model.
The fellowship combines technical instruction with real-world simulations, hands-on projects, mentorship, peer learning, and exposure to workplace problem-solving environments.
The programme focuses on practical AI applications, Python programming, machine learning, data storytelling, dashboard development, automation tools, and real-world analytics across industries including energy, fintech, healthcare, logistics, retail, and the public sector.
“Across Africa, young people are ambitious, connected, and eager to participate in the digital economy, but too many still lack access to industry-relevant opportunities. The Inuka Tech Fellowship is designed to close that gap by equipping learners with practical AI and data skills that employers are actively seeking today and will need even more urgently tomorrow,” said Mumbi Ndung’u, Founder and Executive Director, Power Learn Project Africa.
Recent studies by PwC estimate that AI could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. Meanwhile, digital transformation across Africa continues to drive demand for data analysts, machine learning specialists, business intelligence professionals, and AI-enabled operational talent.
Unlike conventional technology training programmes, the Inuka Tech Fellowship is intentionally designed to provide participants with a structured job-simulation experience that mirrors modern workplace environments.
Participants will develop transferable analytical and problem-solving skills applicable across multiple sectors while benefiting from mentorship, innovation challenges, collaborative peer learning communities, and exposure to AI-assisted development and automation tools.
The fellowship also provides access to an exclusive professional network and post-programme career pathways through PLP’s Talent Hub ecosystem, which connects graduates to employment, internship, and future-of-work opportunities.
Graduates will be prepared for roles such as Operational Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Energy Analytics Specialist, Supply Chain Analyst, and Predictive Analytics Engineer.
Speaking during the launch, Carol Kiplagat, Member KPC Foundation Board of Trustees, emphasised the importance of industry-led partnerships in preparing Kenya’s youth for the evolving world of work.
“The future of employment belongs to young people who can combine digital capability, analytical thinking, and innovation. Through this partnership, we are creating opportunities for Kenyan youth to transition from learning into meaningful careers while supporting industries that urgently require digital talent,” said Kiplagat.
The programme targets young Kenyans with strong problem-solving abilities and an interest in data analytics, operational technology, and digital innovation. Eligible applicants include recent graduates in Computer Science, Information Technology, Statistics, and related fields, with foundational knowledge of at least one programming language such as Python, JavaScript, Java, or C#.While no professional experience is required, participants are expected to commit fully to the programme.
The inaugural cohort of 30 fellows is set to commence training this June. As Africa’s digital economy continues to expand, programmes such as the Inuka Tech Fellowship are helping shape a new generation of employer-aligned, outcome-driven talent development initiatives focused not only on technical skills but also on creating pathways to meaningful employment and long-term economic participation.
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