Amazon to equip SA youth with cloud computing skills

RLabs, a South African social entrepreneurship that sparked a global movement, has now partnered with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to train learners in the on-demand cloud computing platform.

Born in the heart of the gang-ridden Cape Flats, RLabs founder Marlon Parker says they are on a mission to build a stronger future workforce and digital businesses “by equipping youth through various development programmes.”

Through the partnership, RLabs will deliver training that not only enables cloud fluency for unemployed youth and graduates to leverage the power of the AWS Cloud, but also creates a new pathway of economic opportunities in cloud computing jobs.

“The world of work is evolving quickly, which means you have to figure out how to prepare for a future job role that’s impossible to predict,” says Parker.

“In South Africa, with our high youth unemployment numbers, we need to train our young people to unlock the opportunities of the 21st century. Working together with AWS, presents an opportunity for RLabs to create a workforce, especially from underserved and underrepresented communities, that can leverage the power of the AWS Cloud.”

As cloud technologies continue to help businesses to transform at a rapid pace, employees with the cloud skills are in high demand. Research shows that 85% of organisations report deficits in cloud expertise.

AWS classroom training

The AWS training partner programme is designed for organisations like RLabs that meet the criteria for delivering high-quality technical training experiences. Training is developed and maintained by experts, ensuring the content reflects current best practices.

According to a media release, AWS classroom training allows learners to engage live and get questions answered by an expert instructor. Many courses also include hands-on labs, which allow learners to practice real-world scenarios in a sandbox environment.

Furthermore, training helps prepare learners for AWS Certification exams which validate technical skills and expertise with an industry-recognised credential. RLabs also offers certification vouchers bundled with training courses to make it easier for those looking to validate their cloud skills.

Maureen Lonergan, director for AWS training and certification, says, “Organisations need individuals with cloud skills to help transform their business, and there is a growing demand for IT professionals with AWS Cloud skills.

“AWS training and certification, along with our AWS training partners like RLabs, aims to equip the builders of today and tomorrow with the knowledge they need to leverage the power of the AWS Cloud.”

RLabs is an award-winning non-profit that was established in 2009. After launching in the Cape Flats, it has expanded its model to 23 countries across 5 continents impacting more than 25 million people. To date, more than 1.5 million community members have directly accessed the RLabs skills training and economic empowerment programmes.

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