Advertisement ILO, Microsoft Back Digital Skills for Refugee and Host CommunitiesThe International Labour Organization (ILO), in partnership with Power Learn Project Africa, Microsoft, and the Turkana County Government, has launched a new digital skills programme aimed at expanding employment opportunities for refugees and host communities in Kenya.The initiative will equip 1,700 young people in Turkana and Garissa counties with market-relevant digital skills, globally recognised Microsoft certifications, and practical pathways into employment, entrepreneurship, and remote work.Supported by the Government of the Netherlands under the PROSPECTS Partnership, the programme responds to the growing demand for digital skills as Kenyas digital economy continues to expand.Bridging Kenyas Digital Skills GapKenyas digital economy is projected to contribute about $5.1 billion to the countrys GDP by 2028. Despite this growth, many young people still struggle to access the practical skills employers require.More than one million young Kenyans enter the labour market every year. However, limited access to market-ready digital training leaves many unable to compete for opportunities in the technology sector. Youth unemployment also remains high, with more than two-thirds of young people unable to secure jobs.The new programme seeks to bridge this gap by providing practical training tailored to emerging labour market needs while ensuring refugee and host communities are not left behind.ILO, Microsoft Back Digital Skills for Refugee and Host Communities25-Week Training ProgrammePower Learn Project will deliver the programme through a 25-week blended learning model across local digital hubs, community-based organisations, refugee-led organisations, and local implementation partners.Participants will follow two learning pathways.The intermediate track will focus on digital literacy, workplace readiness, and professional skills.The advanced track will allow learners to specialise in high-demand fields such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data analytics. Up to 1,000 Microsoft certification vouchers will also be available, giving participants access to internationally recognised credentials.Expanding Access to Digital OpportunitiesSpeaking during the launch, Caroline Khamati Mugalla, Director of the ILO Country Office for Tanzania, Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, said digital transformation is changing labour markets rapidly and requires deliberate action to ensure no one is excluded.She noted that investing in internationally recognised digital skills for refugee-hosting communities creates stronger labour markets while promoting decent work and inclusive economic participation.Microsoft also emphasised the importance of improving access to quality digital education.Winnie Karanu, AI Skills Director at Microsoft Elevate, said digital skills remain the foundation of inclusive economic growth. She noted that the partnership combines practical training with globally recognised certification, enabling more young people to participate in Kenyas growing digital economy.Supporting Kenyas Digital TransformationThe programme aligns with Kenyas national digital transformation agenda by expanding quality skills training to underserved regions.It also supports government priorities around youth employment, refugee inclusion, regional development, and digital innovation.Power Learn Project Africa says the initiative reflects its commitment to ensuring opportunity reaches underserved communities.Mumbi Ndungu, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Power Learn Project Africa, said the organisation believes talent exists everywhere, but opportunities do not. She noted that the partnership will help young people build careers, earn sustainable incomes, and contribute to the growth of their communities.Beyond Training to EmploymentThe programme goes beyond classroom learning by supporting participants as they transition into employment.Graduates will receive career readiness coaching, employer linkages, entrepreneurship support, and guidance on accessing remote work opportunities.Through collaboration between the ILO, Microsoft, Power Learn Project, and local partners, the initiative aims to build a stronger pipeline of digitally skilled young professionals while promoting inclusive economic growth across Kenyas refugee-hosting counties.The post ILO, Microsoft Back Digital Skills for Refugee and Host Communities appeared first on Africa Business News.