What better way to mark the end of the KIEP-SKIES Rapid Technical Skills Training at Zone01 Kisumu by witnessing a team made up entirely of programme beneficiaries win the overall best prize at the #CodeandCheer hackathon!

It was a fitting conclusion to a transformative initiative that has equipped youth, particularly women, with digital skills to thrive in the global digital economy. The victorious apprentices, Asman Malika, Andrew Osindo, Hannah Juma, Kennedy Ada and Anne Okingo were part of 50 apprentices who graduated this Sunday after an intense 9 months of technical skills training in software development.

The KIEP-SKIES initiative aligned with our mission to provide youth, regardless of background, with opportunities to learn software development from scratch. All 50 graduates of the programme are guaranteed employment contracts of at least three years with Zone01 Kisumu ensuring sustainable impact.

Beyond the apprentice's individual brilliance, we have seen great teamwork that has resulted into more than 30 innovations that address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. These innovations have emerged from two hackathons supported by KIEP-SKIES. KIEP-SKIES apprentices have also received global recognition for their journey so far. The programme has amplified opportunities for its apprentices, leading to notable achievements:

- - Personal Journeys - Watch inspiring testimonials from apprentices like Stella Oiro and Seth Athooh, showcasing their growth through the programme.

- Google I/O Extended Kisumu Dala Edition - KIEP-SKIES beneficiary David Jesse Odhiambo led his team to victory in this prestigious hackathon.

- ETH Conference Cape Town, South Africa - Apprentice Cheryl Owala was invited to an all expense paid trip to South Africa to speak about the future of Web3. Watch her recollection of events on our YouTube

- ICP Hub Women’s-only Blockchain Hackathon - Apprentices Sheila Fana Wambita, Cheryl Owala, and Stella Oiro secured 3rd place with their project, Kintsugi Hub.

- Safeguarding Training - KIEP-SKIES prioritises the well-being of its community. Apprentices and staff underwent Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS) training, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.

- Strengthening Partnerships for Greater Impact - The KIEP-SKIES programme has expanded its reach through strategic partnerships with local and international organizations including New Nexus (Dutch-based tech company), GiveInternet (providing internet access to students in Africa), Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, Koru Hospital, Urban Radio (focused on community engagement and tech education in Western Kenya)

The team also conducted outreach programs, including visiting Sikri Technical College for the Deaf and Blind, highlighting their commitment to inclusivity.

Conclusion

The KIEP-SKIES rapid technical skills training programme at Zone01 Kisumu has been more than a training initiative. It has been a platform for empowerment, innovation, global recognition and employment. We extend our appreciation to the entire KIEP-SKIES and E4Impact Foundation for their support and collaboration throughout the project. We are one step closer to a sustainable digital economy in Kenya and beyond.

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