{"id":1786,"date":"2025-04-09T10:57:43","date_gmt":"2025-04-09T09:57:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/knowledgepoint.com\/autodesk\/?p=1786"},"modified":"2025-04-09T10:57:44","modified_gmt":"2025-04-09T09:57:44","slug":"build4skills-programme-bridges-female-skills-gap-in-kenya","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/knowledgepoint.com\/autodesk\/build4skills-programme-bridges-female-skills-gap-in-kenya\/","title":{"rendered":"Build4Skills programme bridges female skills gap in Kenya"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Build4Skills programme has successfully equipped young women from Kenyan TVET institutions with industry-relevant digital skills.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The programme, designed by Autodesk Learning Partner, HiCAD Africa<\/a>, is delivered in partnership with Autodesk and GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft f\u00fcr Internationale Zusammenarbeit).  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

HiCAD identified a significant gap between current educational practices and the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector\u2019s growing demand for advanced technical skills, especially in design and drafting software. The training provider recognised the importance of equipping students and educators with tools and training that are directly aligned with industry standards.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By combining practical training in Autodesk Revit and Civil 3D, with certification and work experience, the programme bridges the gap between traditional education and the evolving demands of the construction and engineering industries. The initiative aligns with Kenya\u2019s national priorities for technical skills development in the AEC sector, supporting Vision 2030<\/a> by enhancing infrastructure development and ensuring that technical training meets industry demands. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ruchika Gajjar<\/strong> from HiCAD said: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe Build4Skills programme has been transformative in equipping young women with critical digital skills for the AEC industry. By integrating practical training with industry-standard software and real-world experience, we are not only preparing students for the workforce but also upskilling TVET trainers to ensure sustainable knowledge transfer. This initiative is creating a new generation of highly skilled professionals\u2014both men and women\u2014who are ready to meet industry demands and drive innovation in the sector.\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Programme overview<\/strong> 
Over the course of eight weeks, 20 talented female students from Kiambu Institute, Thika Technical Institute, and Nairobi Technical Institute underwent intensive training by HiCAD in digital design tools. These students, specialising in civil engineering, architecture, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering, were given hands-on exposure to Autodesk software.     <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seeking to empower young women in a traditionally male-dominated field, the programme is designed to enhance their technical proficiency, equipping them with skills to compete in the job market. The participants, aged between 19 and 25, were selected through a rigorous process based on academic performance, passion for the AEC industry, and their commitment to intensive training.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Marion<\/strong>, a Revit Mechanical student commented: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe training program was an incredible opportunity. I loved the comprehensive approach that combined both theoretical learning and hands-on practical experience. The instructor was highly knowledgeable and supportive, creating an environment that fostered growth and curiosity. The collaborative nature of the program gave me insight on a part of my career that I never knew existed of which I am grateful for.\u201d  <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Participating students were universally motivated and recognised the importance of the skills developed through the programme:  <\/p>\n\n\n\n