The Huawei ICT Academy has set a goal of recruiting a record 12,000 students for the 2025/26 ICT Competition as its nationwide campaign gains momentum. The initiative continued at Strathmore University following successful events at PC Kinyanjui Institute in Nairobi on September 9 and Kenyatta University on September 10, where strong student turnout and leadership support highlighted the programme’s impact.
Through the campus engagements, Huawei aims to equip young Kenyans with globally competitive digital skills while doubling student participation. Registration is open from September to November, with the National Final scheduled for December 2025, the Regional Final in South Africa in February 2026, and the Global Final in China in May 2026.
Since its launch in Kenya in 2018, the Huawei ICT Competition has empowered over 12,000 students through mentorship, global exposure, and industry-ready skills. Globally, the competition spans 85 countries and has reached more than 950,000 participants across various ICT domains.
At the kickoff event in Nairobi, over 150 students joined the mentorship programme at PC Kinyanjui Institute’s Jitume Lab. Deputy Principal Ruth Muia praised Huawei’s collaboration, noting that the competition would enhance technical skills, increase global exposure, and prepare students for careers in technology.
Huawei ICT Academy Manager Michael Kamau highlighted the enthusiasm of students as evidence of Kenya’s readiness for a digital future.
“Seeing the enthusiasm at PC Kinyanjui Institute is proof that Kenya’s young people are ready to embrace the digital future. With this year’s competition, we aim to double participation and give even more students access to world-class training and opportunities.” he said
Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Prof. Wanjohi Wa Chege described the competition as a key driver of ICT talent development aligned with market needs and global trends.
“The Huawei ICT Competition is a key catalyst in developing ICT talent in Kenya, aligning with evolving market needs and global trends. I encourage our students to enroll and participate wholeheartedly—not just with the goal of winning locally, regionally, or globally, but with the aim of applying the knowledge gained to create real, practical solutions for society’s most pressing challenges,” said Prof Wanjohi
This competition offers a learning journey that extends far beyond the classroom, equipping students with the vital skills needed to address the challenges and harness the opportunities of the digital economy.” He added
Students expressed optimism about the opportunities presented by the competition.
“I’m inspired by the opportunities to travel, train, and gain certifications. This competition will open doors for my future,” said Cherrys Otieno, an ICT student at Kenyatta University.
This year’s competition will feature four tracks—Networking, Cloud, Computing, and Innovation—covering areas such as cybersecurity, AI, IoT, and cloud solutions for real-world challenges in health, finance, and agriculture. Participation is free for students enrolled in Kenyan universities, colleges, or TVET institutions.
The initiative builds on a March 2025 Memorandum of Understanding between Huawei and the State Department for TVET (SDTVET), which aims to establish 150 ICT Academies in TVET institutions over three years, train 150 instructors annually, and certify 1,000 students each year at the Huawei Certified ICT Associate (HCIA) level.
“It is inspiring to see such energy and determination among students, and we encourage more young women to take part in this competition and step into leadership roles in technology.” stated Eng. Maureen Mwaniki, Public Affairs Director and Head of Women in Tech at Huawei
“As you build your careers, it is essential to cultivate a strong professional brand and image—especially in today’s digital age, where social media and the internet shape perceptions. This is not only key to securing your first opportunity but also to growing, advancing, and sustaining long-term success in your profession,” advised Khadija Mohammed, Huawei Kenya Media Director.
