As the technology landscape rapidly evolves, the gap between global tech leaders such as Silicon Valley and developing nations continue to widen, putting them at the risk of falling further behind. Recognizing this growing divide, JHUB Africa, ZScaler, and Westcon-Comstor are exploring a collaborative initiative in the cybersecurity sector aimed at positioning Kenya as a leading force in the global tech space.
Their shared vision is to establish an adaptive industry-academia network that brings educational initiatives in line with the dynamic needs of Kenya’s technology sector. The envisaged collaboration is set to emphasize the strategic importance of cybersecurity as a cornerstone for development, while also embracing artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool to revolutionize security protocols, optimize data management, and build digital trust.
Through this initiative, JHUB Africa domiciled at Jomo Kenyatta University and Technology and its partners, aim to bridge the gap and foster a tech ecosystem that equips Kenya to not only participate in but also shape the future of technology.
During a courtesy visit to the university on November 8, 2024, JHUB founder Dr. Lawrence Nderu welcomed Liat Shentser, Vice President of Solutions Consulting at Zscaler, and Collins Emadau, Director of Westcon for the Rest of Africa.
They discussed at length on leveraging their partnership to provide curriculum oversight, aiming to produce well-rounded, industry-ready students.
Dr. Nderu was particularly keen on a forward-looking curriculum that prepares students not only for today’s jobs, but also for the unique opportunities that AI and cybersecurity will unlock.He said, JHUB was founded to quickly respond to industry needs, adding that the partners now have an invaluable opportunity to collaborate in shaping a comprehensive cybersecurity mapping strategy.
Ms. Shentser emphasized that people can co-exist with AI without fearing for their jobs, highlighting that AI and humans can enhance each other’s strengths.she further stated that AI often relies on human oversight to learn data sets, creating a collaborative relationship where technology and human insight work together seamlessly.
Mr. Emadau stated that the partnership will establish a global roadmap for cybersecurity, remarking that “an institution of JKUAT’s stature should have a waiting list of people eager to come and learn about cybersecurity.”
Students from JKUAT with an interest in cybersecurity engaged with tech leaders, who emphasized the importance of upcoming skill-building programs, mentorship opportunities, and real-world projects. They were also advised to be proactive and embrace the initiatives designed to help them develop crucial competencies.