AWS Launches its re/Start cloud skills training program in Kenya and South Africa
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is bringing its re/Start cloud skills training program to Kenya and South Africa this month as part of its rapid expansion plans this year.
In South Africa, the program will launch three cohorts in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Mahikeng, totalling 12 cohorts launched across Africa since October 2020.
AWS re/Start is collaborating with getINNOtized, a tech company with roots in Germany that’s driven by creating social impact in Africa, and with Ajira Digital, a Kenyan government initiative driven by the Ministry of ICT, Innovations, and Youth Affairs.
The program launched its first Africa cohort in October 2020 in Johannesburg, South Africa, and has since added additional cohorts in South Africa, and expanded the program to Ghana and Nigeria.
AWS re/Start is building a diverse pipeline of entry-level trained talent by collaborating with organizations including with business intelligence, analytics, and data management services company Praesignis in South Africa, getINNOtized in Ghana, and Edojobs in Nigeria.
AWS re/Start is a free, full-time, 12-week program designed to support people who are unemployed or underemployed, and who have little technology experience, for careers in cloud computing. The program provides participants with new cloud computing skills, career and resume coaching, and interviews with local employers.
The program connects over 90% of graduates with job interview opportunities. At the end of 2020, AWS re/Start operated in 25 cities across 12 countries. This year, we expect to double the number of cities in which we operate. The AWS re/Start program is part of Amazon’s commitment to help 29 million people around the world grow their tech skills with free cloud computing skills training by 2025.
With the support of professional mentors and accredited instructors, participants get a foundation of cloud computing knowledge that will propel them into entry-level cloud jobs. The training includes developing skills in programming, networking, security, and relational databases through real-world-scenario-based learning, hands-on labs, and coursework.
The comprehensive program also provides job interviewing and resume coaching to prepare individuals to take the next steps in their career. By the end of the course, graduates have hard skills, soft skills, and earn their AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Certification, an industry-recognized credential validating cloud computing skills.
