KNQA CEO Dr. Alice Kande Champions Digital Skills at Skill Up Africa Conference
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By John Kariuki
Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) CEO Dr. Alice Kande has issued a clarion call for a national shift toward digital skills and modern credentialing to prepare the youth for the future of work. She made the remarks while addressing delegates at the Skill Up Africa Conference and Expo, held from July 15–16 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Nairobi.
“Youth empowerment through artificial intelligence and micro-credentials is no longer optional. It is the foundation of a sustainable, inclusive economy,” Dr. Kande said, emphasizing the need to integrate digital-first solutions into Kenya’s skills development agenda.
The conference, aligned with World Youth Skills Day, has drawn national and international participants to explore how AI, digital transformation, and non-traditional qualifications can unlock new employment pathways for Africa’s youth.
Dr. Kande emphasized KNQA’s commitment to building a qualifications framework that reflects the realities of today’s learners. “We’re reforming the system to validate diverse learning experiences — from micro-credentials to smart certifications — so that every young Kenyan can thrive in the digital economy,” she noted.
Key among KNQA’s reforms is the recognition of micro-credentials and digital badges, which allow learners to upskill rapidly in response to changing job market demands. These bite-sized, flexible learning solutions are already being piloted in partnership with education and industry stakeholders.
Joining Dr. Kande at the event were KNQA Council Member Mr. Joseph Njau and Dr. Carol Hunja, Secretary for Higher Education and Research, both of whom stressed the need for stronger cross-sector collaboration to scale Kenya’s digital skills development.
The two-day expo features interactive sessions on coding, AI, smart credentialing, and youth entrepreneurship, positioning Kenya at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation. Exhibitors are showcasing cutting-edge solutions aimed at helping youth transition from education to meaningful work.
Under Dr. Kande’s leadership, KNQA is rapidly becoming a central force in reshaping how Kenya prepares its youth for a competitive global economy. With the future of work already underway, her message is clear: Kenya must skill up — and fast.
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