NAIROBI, Kenya-AVIC Innovation Holding Limited (AVIC INNO) has concluded the 10th edition of the Africa Tech Challenge (ATC), underscoring its role in equipping young Africans with technical expertise crucial for industrial growth and digital transformation.
The five-week training, hosted at the Technical University of Kenya (TUK), focused on Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), mechanical drawing, and mobile application development. Organizers said the emphasis reflects a strategic alignment with Africa’s growing manufacturing and technology sectors.
Jointly organized with the Ministry of Education and the China Education Association for International Exchange (CEAIE), the program attracted 568 participants in 142 teams from 12 African countries, including Kenya, Ghana, Egypt, Senegal, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
Top performers will advance to specialized training in China ahead of the WorldSkills Competition, while outstanding individuals will secure scholarships to further their studies.
Since its inception in 2014, ATC has trained more than 1,000 young people across Africa, many of whom have transitioned into industries driving the continent’s competitiveness.
“I’m glad that the students who have completed this training now have the skills to impact their countries and develop solutions. This will in turn lead to Africa’s economic development,” said Du Juan, Vice President of AVIC International Project Engineering Company.
Kenya’s Ministry of Education praised the initiative as a boost to the country’s technical and vocational training system.
“China is one of our partners in the TVET space and in training. And we also have Germany, we have Canadians, we have Australians who have come on board to ensure that our TVET system, our training system is top notch and ensures that we produce graduates that are relevant to industry,” said John Tuwei, Director of TVET–Projects and Partnerships.
TUK Vice Chancellor Benedict Mutua said strengthening technical skills is central to fueling Kenya’s industrial revolution and creating jobs for young people.
By combining advanced training with international exposure, the Africa Tech Challenge is positioning African youth to contribute directly to the continent’s economic transformation.
