The KPC Foundation and Power Learn Project (PLP) have launched the Inuka Tech Fellowship in Nairobi, a new initiative aimed at equipping young Kenyans with skills in artificial intelligence, data analytics and operational technology as demand for digital talent continues to grow globally.
The 12-week, fully sponsored fellowship is designed to address what organisers describe as a widening gap between industry needs and available job-ready digital skills.
The programme was unveiled at iHub Nairobi and targets young people seeking to enter or transition into the digital economy at a time when rapid advances in AI and automation are reshaping labour markets worldwide.
The initiative comes against a backdrop of increasing concern over workforce readiness. According to the World Economic Forum, nearly 44% of workers’ skills are expected to be disrupted within the next five years due to AI and automation.
LinkedIn’s Future of Work report also ranks AI and data analytics among the fastest-growing skills globally. Despite this demand, many employers in Africa continue to report shortages of suitably skilled talent, while youth unemployment and underemployment remain a persistent challenge.
The Inuka Tech Fellowship will run as an immersive, in-person programme built around an apprenticeship-style model that combines technical instruction with practical simulations, project-based learning, mentorship and peer collaboration. Participants will be exposed to workplace-style problem-solving environments intended to mirror real industry conditions.
Training will cover areas including Python programming, machine learning, data storytelling, dashboard development and automation tools, with applications drawn from sectors such as energy, fintech, healthcare, logistics, retail and the public sector. The programme also incorporates exposure to AI-assisted development tools and operational analytics workflows used in modern workplaces.
“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 estimates by PwC suggest that artificial intelligence could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with digital transformation across Africa expected to further increase demand for roles such as data analysts, machine learning specialists, business intelligence professionals and AI-enabled operational experts.
The fellowship is structured to provide participants with a job-simulation experience intended to reflect modern workplace environments. It also includes mentorship, innovation challenges, collaborative learning communities and access to an exclusive professional network.
Through PLP’s Talent Hub ecosystem, graduates will be linked to potential employment, internships and future work opportunities. Upon completion, participants are expected to 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, KPC Foundation Board of Trustee Member, emphasised the importance of industry-led partnerships in building youth capacity for evolving labour markets.
“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 Gathoni.
The programme targets young Kenyans with strong problem-solving abilities and an interest in data analytics, operational technology and digital innovation.
Applicants are expected to have foundational knowledge of at least one programming language, including Python, JavaScript, Java or C#, and may include recent graduates in Computer Science, Information Technology, Statistics and related fields.
While no prior professional experience is required, participants are expected to commit fully to the 12-week programme.
The inaugural cohort will consist of 30 fellows and is scheduled to begin in June.
KPC Foundation, Power Learn Project launch AI Fellowship to equip youth for future jobs
KPC Foundation, Power Learn Project launch AI Fellowship to equip youth for future jobs
