The Presidential Digital Talent Programme (PDTP) is an initiative to be implemented by the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology (MoIC) through the ICT Authority (ICTA). It is a partnership between the government and a number of stakeholder in the private and public sector. The Presidential Digital Talent Programme is in line with the country’s Vision 2030, the Jubilee Manifesto and the ICT Master Plan developed by the ICT Authority (ICTA). The internship programme will offer participants an environment in which they can understand government services, and provide them with an opportunity to contribute towards improving service delivery to citizens. It is a transformative initiative that should see ICT managed as a business in government.

The program commenced in 2015 by training 100 recent ICT graduates who graduated on 11th January, 2017 at the Kenya School of Government. The PDTP class of 2015 produced 29 innovations, five of which advanced to implementation stage. The five include the Nyumba Kumi app that enhances security in an area by availing real-time information and the Damu-Sasa app that helps to facilitate blood delivery services amongst hospitals. In 2016, the program is now training 400 recent ICT graduates.

Harler Technologies Ltd was selected as one of the private sector partners that will be taking on some of the 400 interns. Additionally, the management will be involved in the mentoring programme that will guide the interns attached to better appreciate the realities of ICT and the sector.The mentees will be attached to their mentors for a period of 12 months during which they will share experiences, knowledge and networks with the intern, providing the kind of nurturing support that will allow them to grow within their field.

At Harler Technologies Ltd, we understand that we as members of the private sector play a crucial role in the success of the Presidential Digital Talent Programme and would urge others to take part in this programme for the betterment of our country.