Learners across primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions in Kenya are set to embark on coding lessons as President William Ruto announces the implementation of a coding program in the curriculum.
This nationwide initiative, approved by the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), is part of a collaborative effort with Google, the Ministries of Education, ICT, and the digital economy.
Addressing the Youth Conekt Africa summit on Saturday, President Ruto highlighted the shifting dynamics of the global job market towards virtual and technology-driven roles. He emphasized the need to align the education system with this reality, prompting the launch of a comprehensive coding program in primary and secondary schools nationwide.
“To this end, the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with global tech giant Google and the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy, is launching a comprehensive coding programme in primary and secondary schools nationwide,” he stated.
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President Ruto revealed that Google has generously offered to create a job pipeline for program participants, providing access to digital gigs with earning potential of up to Sh450,000 ($3000). He stressed the importance of expanding access to broadband connectivity and increasing digital literacy to foster innovation.
Digital Hubs Legislation and Training Opportunities
The President announced his intention to sign a law, passed by Parliament, allowing the creation of 1450 digital hubs in every ward in Kenya. These hubs are envisioned to train and enable youth connectivity to job opportunities worldwide. He expressed gratitude to the Parliament for the legislative changes and aims to sign the law into effect the following week.
President Ruto’s vision for integrating the entire tech ecosystem into Kenya’s curriculum, from elementary school to university, was reiterated. By teaching learners problem-solving skills through coding, he emphasized their better preparation for the contemporary world job market.
Kenya’s efforts in incorporating coding as a subject in primary and secondary schools under the new competency-based curriculum were recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in July 2023. UNESCO praised the country’s support for digital literacy in the new curriculum, emphasizing Kenya’s pioneering status in introducing coding skills.
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Economic Impact of ICT
The Economic Survey 2021 report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) highlighted Information Communication and Technology (ICT) as one of the top ten contributors to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). President Ruto’s commitment to equipping learners with tech skills aligns with the recognition of the economic impact of ICT in the country.
As Kenya positions itself at the forefront of integrating coding into its education system, the collaboration with Google and the establishment of digital hubs signal a strategic move towards preparing the youth for a tech-driven future. This initiative is poised to empower learners with skills essential for navigating the digital landscape and contributing to the evolving global job market.