The International Business Training College (IBTC), through its Data Centre Academy, has expanded its data centre workforce development programme to Kenya, seeking to equip engineering and technology graduates with skills for employment in the country’s growing data centre industry.

The programme, supported by Schneider Electric University, the Africa Data Centres Association (ADCA) and other industry partners, was formalised during ITW &Datacloud Africa in Nairobi.

The Kenya rollout, building on successful programmes already established in South Africa and Nigeria, will combine technical training, professional certification and practical industry exposure to address critical skills shortages across Africa’s data centre ecosystem.

As part of the programme, participants will undertake the Data Centre Certified Associate (DCCA I) training using curriculum provided through Schneider Electric University.

Speaking during the signing event, Steve Santini, Vice President, Secure Power, Sub-Saharan Africa at Schneider Electric, said the expansion of Africa’s digital economy was increasing the need for qualified data centre professionals.

“Building a sustainable talent pipeline is critical to supporting the growth of digital infrastructure across the continent,” Santini said.

He said the partnership with IBTC and ADCA would help provide engineers and technicians with the technical knowledge needed to design, operate and maintain data centre infrastructure.

The programme will be delivered through IBTC’s “source, train, place” model, which combines recruitment, structured training, certification and links to employment opportunities.

Following the initial DCCA I training, participants will have opportunities to progress towards further industry certification and practical experience.

ADCA will provide industry leadership and governance support, while companies including IMEX and IX Africa are expected to contribute to practical training and exposure to operational data centre environments.

IBTC Chief Executive Officer Nikki Maritz said collaboration between training institutions, technology providers and industry organisations would be important in developing the workforce needed by the sector.