Nairobi, Kenya — May 19, 2025

In a bold move to bridge Kenya’s digital skills gap and foster technological innovation, Huawei Kenya, Equity Group Foundation, and the Open University of Kenya (OUK) have officially launched the Huawei ICT Academy at OUK. The strategic partnership, announced during a high-profile ceremony at the Equity Centre in Nairobi, aims to equip over 10,000 learners with cutting-edge ICT training and globally recognized certifications.

The program will offer fully online, self-paced courses in areas including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and coding — with dual certification from both Huawei and academic institutions.

Over 10,000 Students to Benefit from World-Class ICT Training

The newly launched Huawei ICT Academy will target learners across Kenya and beyond, enabling them to gain practical digital skills that align with global industry demands. Through a flexible learning model, students will receive training in high-demand areas, culminating in professional certifications by Huawei.

The Academy will also serve as a foundation for the establishment of a Virtual Innovation Hub, designed to support student-led solutions to real-world challenges in technology, health, and social development.

Stakeholders Unite to Invest in Kenya’s Future

The launch ceremony featured key leaders from the three institutions. Mr. Gavin Gao, CEO of Huawei Kenya, presented the Academy plaque to Prof. Elijah Omwenga, Vice Chancellor of the Open University of Kenya. Also present was Dr. James Mwangi, Chancellor of OUK and Executive Chairman of Equity Group Foundation.

“This partnership exemplifies our shared commitment to nurturing digital talent in Kenya,” said Mr. Gao. “Together with Equity Group Foundation and Open University of Kenya, we’re not just investing in infrastructure — we’re investing in people.”

Dr. Mwangi highlighted Equity Group Foundation’s role in democratizing access to global technology education:

“We’re building the workforce of tomorrow — one that is inclusive, innovative and equipped to transform Kenya and Africa. Through this collaboration, we are scaling access to global tech skills, particularly for young people who might otherwise be left out of the digital revolution.”

Prof. Omwenga emphasized the importance of positioning OUK as a center of excellence:

“This initiative positions the Open University of Kenya as a hub for digital innovation. By integrating Huawei’s global expertise and Equity Group Foundation’s support, we are unlocking new possibilities for learners to thrive in a tech-driven world.”

Dual Impact: Digital Skills and Health Innovation

In addition to expanding access to ICT training, the partnership is expected to play a role in advancing digital health innovation in Kenya. Under Equity Group Foundation’s social impact portfolio, the Academy will support the development of telemedicine platforms and digital health services.

These digital health interventions are aligned with the Foundation’s mission to drive inclusive growth through access to health, education, and technology, particularly for low-income and underserved communities.

About the Huawei ICT Academy

The Huawei ICT Academy is a global initiative that collaborates with higher learning institutions to provide specialized ICT training and certifications. The program is designed to align students with real-world digital opportunities and connect them with jobs in the global tech economy.

More information: Huawei ICT Academy

About the Open University of Kenya (OUK)

Chartered in August 2023, the Open University of Kenya is the country’s first fully online public university. OUK offers affordable, flexible, and self-paced learning across a variety of disciplines, including professional development, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs.

More information: www.ouk.ac.ke

About Equity Group Foundation (EGF)

Equity Group Foundation is the implementing social arm of Equity Group Holdings Plc. Launched in 2008, EGF’s mission is to transform 100 million lives in Africa by 2030 through innovative programs in education, health, agriculture, climate resilience, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion. The Foundation uses technology and partnerships to scale social and economic impact.

More information: www.equitygroupfoundation.com

Media Contacts

Maureen Mwaniki
Communications, Huawei Kenya
✉️ maureen.mwaniki@huawei.com | 📞 +254 702 657476

Brendah Kabindio
Head of Corporate Communications and Marketing, Open University of Kenya
✉️ bkabindio@ouk.ac.ke | 📞 +254 723 651988

Alex Muhia
Director of Communications, Equity Group
✉️ Alex.Muhia@equitybank.co.ke | 📞 0763 026007 / 0763 618 871