Kenya Partners with UNESCO and China’s CODEMAO to Launch Next Phase of Youth Coding Initiative

Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya Expands Groundbreaking Youth Coding Program in Partnership with UNESCO and CODEMAO

Kenya has taken a significant leap forward in its ambition to become a regional technology powerhouse, launching the second phase of a landmark youth coding and artificial intelligence (AI) initiative. The program, unveiled on July 3, is a collaborative effort between the Government of Kenya, UNESCO, and Chinese tech education platform CODEMAO, and is set to run from 2025 to 2030.

Designed to deepen digital literacy and AI skills among schoolchildren, the initiative positions Kenya as a trailblazer in digital education on the continent.

“To prepare our youth for the jobs and challenges of tomorrow, we must invest in digital skills today,” said Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, highlighting Kenya’s pioneering role as the first African country to roll out this new phase.

The first phase (2022–2024) of the initiative delivered training and equipment to thousands of students and teachers, laying a strong foundation in coding and emerging technologies. Building on this momentum, the new phase will provide:

• Online training modules and AI-focused curricula

• Mentorship opportunities for students and teachers

• Tablets and digital infrastructure to support hands-on learning

As a reward for outstanding performance, a select group of students and educators will soon travel to Shenzhen, China, for a study tour that includes visits to major tech firms and cultural immersion experiences. The trip symbolizes the program’s emphasis on global exposure and cross-cultural learning.

CODEMAO CEO Tianchi Li reaffirmed the platform’s commitment to Kenya’s digital future, pledging continued investment in infrastructure, training, and innovation ecosystems that empower youth.

“Kenya is a leader in embracing the future of education,” said Li. “We are honored to help build the skills and imagination that will define the next generation of African innovators.”

With this bold initiative, Kenya is not just teaching code—it is writing the script for a digitally empowered Africa.