Stanbic Kenya Foundation, in partnership with Microsoft, Pathways Technologies, and Konza Technopolis, is advancing Kenya’s digital transformation agenda through the rollout of the Microsoft Elevate AI National Skilling Initiative across multiple counties. The programme is designed to equip trainers, educational institutions, and communities with foundational and practical artificial intelligence skills, ensuring that more Kenyans are prepared to participate in an increasingly AI-driven economy. By focusing on workforce readiness and digital inclusion, the initiative supports the country’s long-term vision of building a competitive digital talent ecosystem.
The initiative has already trained 152 participants across the coastal counties of Kwale, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Taita Taveta, as well as Embu County. Rather than focusing solely on urban centres, the programme extends AI education to county-level institutions and local communities, ensuring that underserved regions also benefit from emerging digital opportunities. Participants receive practical AI knowledge tailored to workforce needs, helping educators and institutions build the capacity to deliver relevant digital skills that can improve employability, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Aligned with Kenya’s Digital Masterplan and Vision 2030, the Microsoft Elevate AI National Skilling Initiative aims to position the country as a leading regional hub for artificial intelligence talent. The partnership leverages Stanbic Kenya Foundation’s extensive networks across SMEs, youth groups, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, and county governments, enabling Microsoft to expand AI skilling beyond traditional learning environments. The programme also customizes training content for sectors such as agriculture, entrepreneurship, and small business development, ensuring learners acquire practical skills that directly address real-world challenges and economic opportunities.
Digital literacy continues to be a central pillar of Stanbic Kenya Foundation’s mission to empower communities through education and innovation. Since 2021, the Foundation has collaborated with various partners to strengthen digital capabilities among women, youth, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Through its Future ni Digital platform, more than 250,000 Kenyans have accessed basic, intermediate, and advanced digital skills training since 2019, creating a strong foundation for inclusive participation in Kenya’s growing digital economy and preparing citizens for the future of work.
The Microsoft Elevate AI National Skilling Initiative represents another significant milestone in building a digitally skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and economic growth. By combining the expertise of Microsoft with the community reach of Stanbic Kenya Foundation and its partners, the programme is expanding access to AI education while creating opportunities for individuals, businesses, and institutions across Kenya. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries worldwide, initiatives like this are helping ensure that Kenyan talent remains competitive, adaptable, and ready to contribute to the country’s digital future.
