Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced the launch of AWS re/Start skills development and job training programme in Ghana, South Africa, and Nigeria.

In a statement the company explained that AWS re/Start aims to build local talent by providing AWS Cloud skills development and job opportunities at no cost to learners that are unemployed, underemployed, or from under-represented communities.

“The AWS re/Start programme is designed to accommodate differing levels of experience - even those with no previous technical knowledge can apply,” the company added.

The 12-week skills-based training programme covers fundamental AWS Cloud skills as well as practical career skills such as effective communication, time management, collaboration, interviewing, and CV writing.

“With the support of professional mentors and accredited instructors, learners build a variety of technology skills such as programming, networking, security, and relational databases through real-world-scenario-based learning, hands-on labs, and coursework,” reads an excerpt from the company’s statement.

The programme also prepares and covers the cost for participants to take the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam, validating their cloud skills with an industry-recognised credential.

On completion of the programme, individuals will be able to apply for entry-level cloud roles in cloud operations, site reliability, infrastructure support, and technical adjacent business support functions.

In Ghana, AWS re/Start is working with a non-profit organisation getINNOtized, a tech organization with roots in Germany and driven by creating social impact in Africa, which specialises in recruiting, training, and placing young people in careers.

getINNOtized will deliver the learning experience, provide a pathway to earning AWS Certification, and support the learners as they launch their careers in cloud computing. They will also support graduates by connecting them directly with potential employers.

“AWS re/Start is building a diverse pipeline of new cloud talent by engaging unemployed, underemployed, and under-represented people in Ghana who otherwise might not have had access to this exciting career path,” said Robin Njiru, Business Development Manager (Sub-Saharan Africa) at AWS. “AWS re/Start creates a win-win scenario for individuals, local communities, and our customers and partners. It connects individuals to in-demand cloud and tech opportunities, and provides AWS customers and partners with a means to build a loyal and diverse workforce.”

Ulrich Busch, CEO and Co-Founder of getINNOtized, added: “getINNOtized is excited to collaborate with AWS re/Start to build an inclusive and diverse global pipeline of new cloud talent. During the training on-site in Accra, learners are equipped with a hands-on skillset that enables them to create true value for clients all over the world. Graduates are connected with virtual employment opportunities in Germany, in an employment model that combines flexibility and cost effectiveness, which is supported by which is supported by GIZ Ghana. We are thrilled to grow Ghana’s digital workforce.”

The three AWS re/Start cohorts in Ghana, South Africa, and Nigeria will graduate in January 2021, and will be ready for entry-level cloud positions.

The AWS re/Start program is now running in 12 countries: Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Ghana, Ireland, Nigeria, Netherlands, Spain, South Africa, UK, and US.