Power Learn Project launches in Tanzania, to train 300,000 youths

Dar es Salaam. Power Learn Project, a digital initiative has launched in Tanzania with the training 300,000 youths from Tanzania in its quest to train 1 Million Software developers across Africa by 2027.

 The launch was held at the University of Dar es Salaam, Power Learn Project (PLP), in partnership with Adanian Labs Tanzania and the Dar es Salaam University Students Organization.

In 2016, the government of Tanzania launched the National ICT Policy 2016, an update to an earlier version adopted in 2003, in recognition of the contribution of the ICT sector to promoting socioeconomic development in the country.

Speaking at the event Chief, Growth and Operations Officer of Power Learn Project  Mumbi Ndung’u, said leveraging mobile and digital technology to realize the development goals in Tanzania requires collaboration by all stakeholders, including the government, development organizations, private sector players, and the mobile industry.

“There is an opportunity for further collaboration among these stakeholders to extend digital services to unconnected populations, empower women and, reduce all forms of inequality, support the emerging tech start-up ecosystem. The extent and outcome of collaboration on improving access to and adoption of digital services rely on the ability of government to create an enabling environment and the right incentives for partnerships,” said Ndung’u.

Launched in April 2022 in Kenya, PLP is a Pan African impact organization with a vision of driving transformative change for the youth in Africa by empowering them with relevant technology capacity through providing quality, affordable and decentralized tech training.

PLP aims to kickstart software careers with entry-level, fully funded training using self-paced learning management over 16 weeks. The course ranges from programming languages such as Python and Dart Programming with Flutter to Blockchain 101, Databases, Data Science, and Entrepreneurial skills. The learners will then have opportunities for hands-on practical experience through a proof of work module.

Learners will earn a certificate upon successfully completing the course and join a community of young skilled Africans ready to take on digital opportunities. They will also be equipped with life skills such as Financial Literacy, Health, and Well-being with our partner AfyaRekod, who will provide access to their mental health data and support when in need, among many more. These will help them navigate the fast-paced, evolving world as productive members of society. 

“Upon completion of the course, learners will have access to a number of opportunities and alternative educational pathways through the organization, ranging from internships and proof of work opportunities or venture studio and incubator connections if they want to explore entrepreneurship,” states Ndung’u.

In the pilot phase of the Tanzania program, PLP aims to train 1000 software developers in Tanzania over four months. Over the next few months, PLP is looking to launch in three more pilot countries  such as Ghana, Uganda and Rwanda, with West and North Africa, envisioned for phase 2 of the program. The scholarship program  officially started  accepting applications since October 2022. 

“The world is in the midst of the fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by Information and Communication Technology (ICT); as such, the World Economy and other activities are highly dependent on ICT. Given that, Tanzania cannot afford to remain behind,” says John Kamara, chairman of the Power Learn Project board.