Sylvia Duruson
Amazon Web Services (AWS) has opened its inaugural international AWS Skills Center in Cape Town, South Africa. The in-person learning space aims to increase access to cloud computing education regardless of background.
AWS Skills Centers provide free training to anyone curious about the cloud and potential careers. Local leaders, educators, officials and job seekers attended the Cape Town centre’s launch to see how the cloud impacts daily life.
Premier Alan Winde, Director-General Nkosinathi Sishi and AWS leaders welcomed the centre’s value for the region. “We look forward to working with AWS to empower South Africans,” said Winde, noting investment in people also invests in South Africa’s global stature.
“AWS is committed to expanding access to skills training for career growth,” said AWS VP Maureen Lonergan. “Cape Town has immense talent, and upskilling can drive innovation and transformation across South Africa.”
Cape Town joins AWS Skills Centers in Seattle and Virginia. The interactive spaces showcase how the cloud enables weather forecasting, robotics and more. Visitors learn through hands-on exhibits and instructor-led training on cloud fundamentals, preparing them to earn AWS certifications.
Centres also provide career coaching and job placement with local employers, connecting trained individuals with opportunities. The Cape Town facility specifically aims to increase workforce development and level the playing field through free cloud education.
According to the World Economic Forum, organisations face skill gaps impeding transformation, with inadequate training opportunities. Over 75% plan to adopt emerging technologies, driving demand for related skills and 2.6 million new jobs by 2027.
AWS has already trained over 100,000 in South Africa on cloud skills since 2017 through free and paid programs. The Cape Town Centre seeks to expand this impact. Its opening helps fulfil Amazon’s goal of 29 million global digital skills trainees by 2025 through offerings like self-paced online courses.
AWS Skills Centers aim to democratise technology education beyond socioeconomic barriers. The cloud unlocks innovations that can profoundly impact lives, from healthcare to environmental sustainability. However, skill gaps persist, preventing individuals and organisations from harnessing their full potential.
The Cape Town facility aspires to be an engine of empowerment. Its exhibits inspire by revealing what’s possible. Its courses equip learners with knowledge and credentials to pursue new careers. And its networking connects talent with real-world opportunities.
