So many new technologies are shaping the world of networking, demanding IT professionals to develop new skills and capabilities. Elimu saw this as a huge need in the community and finally realized our dream of having a Cisco Networking Academy in Malindi. We are the only Cisco Networking Academy in Kilifi County. What started as a mere dream was realized sooner than we expected because of the high demand and we are proud that our first bunch of Cisco students graduated on Dec, 5th 2019.
Elimu is privileged to partner with Cisco in order to pass IT skills to people who need it the most but cannot afford the training. We were able to offer free Cisco curriculum to the Boda-boda motorcycle taxi operators within Malindi. In addition, the lessons also included safety rules through the internet and how to work with the government portal (e-Citizen) where they can renew their licenses and access other government services that are nowadays offered online. The first of our boda-boda class also graduated ceremoniously on Dec, 5th 2019. The graduation ceremony was one of a kind as it saw Alfie Hamid, Regional Manager, Cisco Africa, the Cisco CSR Manager, East Africa Hital Muraj and Serges Nanfack, Technical Manager, Cisco South Africa joined us on the day. Some of the graduates also received their certificates from H.E. Lisa Stadelbauer, the High Commissioner of Canada to Kenya.
“Reading is the gateway skill that makes all other learning possible.”
Today, we are proud to mention that the Elimu Cisco Networking Academy has grown from last year’s number of just 15 students to 25 so far and more joining us every week, most of them recent high school graduates. Our main goal is to empower the youth to acquire I.T skills required in the current job market. Our resolution this year is to reach hundreds of youth with our Cisco Networking Academy program and we have started on high note.
Technology is changing the world by connecting billions of devices and improving how we live, work, play and treat our planet. No industry is immune and Elimu is here to change lives of the youth by providing them with the IT skills through Cisco Networking Academy and expose them to incredible job opportunities. “I believe in a couple of months I will be an I.T professional” said Alphonce, one of our current Cisco students. He is halfway through the three month course which has self-directed components along with instructor-lead components.