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Before enrolling in a recent training program led by Amazon Web Services (AWS), Cecilia K’Owiti, a second-year computer science student at the University of Nairobi, had only a vague understanding of cloud computing.

Like many of her peers, she had heard about cloud technology in lectures but had never explored its real-world applications in depth. The concept seemed abstract—something used by big tech companies far away in Silicon Valley, with little relevance to her day-to-day coursework or career aspirations.

That changed when she joined the cloud training program, which aimed to equip students with practical skills in cloud architecture, computing, storage, networking, and security. Through hands-on labs and guided workshops, Cecilia learned how AWS services like EC2, S3, and Lambda work together to power websites, applications, and enterprise systems.

She discovered how companies use cloud-based machine learning tools, big data analytics, and cybersecurity frameworks to solve real-world challenges, from detecting fraud in financial transactions to improving patient care in hospitals.

“Before this program, I had a rough understanding of how cloud computing works, but now I see its actual areas of application and the career paths it can open for me,” Cecilia said. “The instructor was knowledgeable, and I appreciate his interactive approach.”

Cecilia is one among 125 students who participated in a three-day, in-person cloud computing training organized by AWS at the University of Nairobi, part of a broader initiative to equip young Africans with the technical skills needed for the digital economy. The program, led by an instructor from AWS’s Skills Center, focused on foundational cloud computing knowledge and career pathways in the fast-growing field.

For students like Neville Mwangangi, a fourth-year computer science major, the program provided a deeper understanding of the technology shaping modern computing.

“Our instructor, Nigel Solomons, was great—he broke down complex core elements of cloud infrastructure into simple explanations,” Neville said. “My idea of the cloud was more on storage, but I got to understand it as a service. I now have access to AWS Labs for more learning. What stood out for me was learning about different job roles in the cloud and how accessible AWS certifications are.”

As cloud computing reshapes industries worldwide, companies are increasingly looking for talent with technical expertise in managing digital infrastructure. According to industry analysts, Africa’s growing internet economy—fueled by mobile adoption, fintech, and cloud-based services—will require millions of skilled professionals in the coming decade.

For some students, the training was their first hands-on experience with cloud computing. Terry Mukundi, a fourth-year computing student, said the program filled a crucial gap in her coursework.

“I knew about cloud computing but only in theory,” she said. “I got practical skills on cloud networking, cloud security, and machine learning. This training helped me understand how to optimize the cloud for D-planning workflows, and I’m now more confident in plugging into AWS cloud services, especially when deploying my fourth-year course project.”

The University of Nairobi sees partnerships with tech companies as essential to ensuring students graduate with industry-relevant skills.

“The future of work is digital, and our work with AWS ensures that our students gain practical, industry-relevant skills,” said Professor Andrew Kahonge, Chair of the Department of Computing and Informatics at UoN. “We recognize the increasing demand for cloud expertise and are committed to equipping our students with the knowledge and certifications that will give them a competitive edge in the job market.”

AWS, which launched its first Skills Center in Africa in Cape Town in 2023, has been expanding its training programs across the continent, aiming to bridge the gap between students and the technology industry. The initiative offers free, instructor-led sessions designed to introduce participants to cloud infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and big data.

AWS has framed its training initiatives as part of a long-term commitment to digital skills development.

“Cloud computing is at the core of digital transformation, and we believe access to high-quality training is essential to unlocking career opportunities,” said Nondumiso Zibi, AWS Director for Support Engineering, EMEA. “This initiative is aligned with our long-term commitment to equipping young people with the necessary technical skills to thrive in the current global job market.”

As part of its outreach, AWS encouraged students who completed the training to pursue certification as AWS Cloud Practitioners and explore additional courses on AWS Educate and AWS Skills Builder, which offers over 500 free online courses. The AWS Skills Center in Cape Town also provides virtual training sessions, allowing students across Africa to participate remotely.

For universities and students in Kenya, the growing demand for cloud computing skills represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Professor Leonidah Kerubo, Dean of the Department of Computing and Informatics at UoN, said that working closely with technology firms is essential to keeping up with industry trends.

“We want our students to be market-ready,” she said. “That’s why we are working very closely with industry players like AWS so they can fit with the current tech industry requirements. The mandate of AWS is aligned with our mandate in that we are inculcating a culture of innovation in our students. AWS coming to show us how to close the skills gap is very important, and that’s why we appreciate them.”

As Kenya pushes to establish itself as a technology hub, the success of such training programs may determine how quickly its workforce adapts to the demands of a digital-first economy. With cloud computing and artificial intelligence increasingly driving global industries, initiatives like AWS’s could help position Kenya’s graduates for the jobs of the future—whether in Nairobi’s growing startup scene or in multinational tech firms seeking skilled professionals.