Andela, a global talent outsourcing unicorn, has teamed up with the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF), a project under the Linux Foundation, to train 20,000 Africans in cloud-native fundamentals. This collaboration seeks to bridge the global talent gap in cloud-native technologies.
Over the next three years, the free training will focus on Kubernetes and other cloud-native tools, equipping participants with the skills needed to earn certifications such as the Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) and the Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD).
The programme will be available to Andela’s talent marketplace, which comprises over 150,000 tech professionals, primarily from Africa. Participants will also benefit from a supportive community and access to mentorship opportunities throughout their learning journey.
The partnership arrives at a time when the global demand for cloud-native talent is at an all-time high. The shortage of skilled cloud professionals has significantly impacted businesses, leading to project delays, increased expenses, and diminished competitiveness. By 2025, it is projected that there will be 7.5 million unfilled cloud-related positions worldwide.
“By collaborating with Andela, we aim to empower African developers and help close the global tech talent gap,” said Chris Aniszczyk, CTO of CNCF.
Andela CEO Carrol Chang echoed this sentiment, highlighting the growing need for skilled tech professionals in Africa and their potential to address the global shortfall. “This partnership with CNCF aligns perfectly with our mission to empower African developers. By equipping them with cloud-native skills, we’re enabling them to tap into opportunities in the global tech industry,” she stated.
Participants in the training program, selected from Andela’s talent marketplace, will undergo six to nine months of preparation to earn the Kubernetes and Cloud Associate (KCNA) and Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKAD) certifications.