Strathmore University (SU), through its iLabAfrica Research and Innovation Centre, and the Next Step Foundation (NSF) are excited to announce the signing of a Collaboration Agreement on June 4, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya. This strategic partnership will deliver a cutting-edge Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud Skilling Program, empowering students, faculty, and marginalized communities (especially youth and Persons with Disabilities) with industry-relevant cloud computing skills to thrive in the digital economy.
By combining Strathmore University’s world-class academic infrastructure and research capabilities with NSF’s expertise as an AWS Training Partner, the partnership creates a powerful synergy to bridge the cloud computing and digital skills gap. The program will equip participants with the tools to excel in high-demand, cloud-based careers while advancing innovation and digital inclusion. The initiative will focus on:
- Training Strathmore University’s faculty, students and staff in AWS Cloud Computing.
- Joint research, mentorship, and student supervision.
- Community outreach and corporate partnerships for real-world impact.
- Access to physical infrastructure and learning resources at Strathmore University.
- Curriculum delivery, quality assurance, and certification support from NSF as an AWS Training Partner.
“At iLabAfrica, we’ve spent over a decade building expertise in AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and digital learning. This partnership strengthens our shared goal of equipping more people with the tech skills needed for today’s workforce,” said Dr. Joseph Sevilla, Director at iLabAfrica, Strathmore University. “We are especially proud to see inclusive skilling efforts expanding and look forward to supporting more local talent through this collaboration.”
The program will roll out at Strathmore University with joint delivery between the two institutions. It will also include shared mentorship, lab access, research collaboration, and curriculum alignment to industry standards.
Peres Were, Executive Director of NSF, added, “With Cloud Computing ’s growing footprint across Africa, the demand for cloud talent is accelerating fast. We are proud to be equipping our learners to not only earn certifications but also step into roles as AWS Instructors and Cloud Engineers. That’s how we are building a sustainable, inclusive tech ecosystem.”
This partnership reinforces Strathmore University’s leadership in ICT innovation by providing its students and staff access to globally recognized AWS certifications and expanding research opportunities. At the same time, it amplifies Next Step Foundation’s mission to empower marginalized communities by leveraging Strathmore’s infrastructure and extensive networks to reach more learners. Collectively, the partnership will foster economic inclusion and position Kenya as a growing hub for cloud computing talent in Africa.
Starting July 2025, the first cohort of learners will begin training at Strathmore, with labs allocated for sessions and a review planned after the first month to evaluate progress and scale up.
About Strathmore University
Strathmore University is a premier private university in Kenya, renowned for academic excellence and innovation. Through iLabAfrica Research and Innovation Centre, SU drives cutting-edge research, incubation, and ICT policy development to advance digital transformation. Learn more at www.strathmore.edu.
About Next Step Foundation
The Next Step Foundation (NSF) is a Public Benefit Organization registered in Kenya, dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities, youth, and marginalized communities through digital skills training and inclusive employment initiatives. As an AWS Training Partner, NSF prepares talent for the modern digital economy. Learn more at www.nextstepfoundation.org.