On 16 August the official opening of Amazon Web Services (AWS) first international AWS Skills Centre took place in Cape Town, as well as the planned investment of R46 billion by AWS Africa (Cape Town) Region between 2018 and 2029.
Of the total planned investment, AWS has already invested R15.6 billion between 2018 and 2022. According to a recent Economic Impact Study commissioned by AWS, the investment linked with the AWS Africa (Cape Town) Region will contribute an estimated R80 billion to South Africa’s GDP from 2018 to 2029.
Premier Alan Winde and Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, alongside national government officials, attended the launch of the AWS Skills Centre in Cape Town – the first of its kind outside of the United States.
This centre aims to offer accessible cloud skills training, including free foundational cloud education, for individuals intrigued by cloud computing and its potential careers. By creating a physical learning hub for anyone in the local community, irrespective of background, education level, or social standing, AWS is fostering a diverse pool of entry-level cloud talent in the region.
“We look forward to working with AWS to bring powerful training resources to the residents of South Africa. By investing in our people and their future, we are also investing in South Africa’s future and advancing our stature in the global economy,” said Alan Winde, Premier of the Western Cape.
Minister Wenger added that guided by the economic action plan, “Growth For Jobs,” the WCG is striving to significantly heighten economic growth for job creation by facilitating private sector participation. Attracting investment and equipping residents with necessary skills are two key elements of this plan. She stated, “AWS’s impressive skills centre opening aligns perfectly with the kind of investments and skills development initiatives we’re aiming to attract. Investment begets economic growth, subsequently leading to job opportunities.”
The facility, accessible to all, allows people to delve into how cloud computing technology drives applications ranging from weather forecasts to smart homes. It includes immersive displays illustrating real-world cloud applications, live instructor-led training, and resources for achieving an AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification.
Interactive exhibits, classroom training, and community events
Cape Town represents the third AWS Skills Centre, following locations in Seattle, WA and Arlington, VA. Each centre offers an array of complimentary cloud training and career exploration activities. Visitors engage by experiencing cloud technology’s role in gaming, machine learning, cybersecurity, space exploration, and more through interactive displays in the Cloud Discovery Space.
Participants, both in-person and virtual, access live training led by AWS experts to grasp cloud computing essentials. Learners can harness training and resources for readiness in obtaining an AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification, bolstering their employability with a recognized industry credential.
The centre also extends career guidance and organizes networking events with local employers and workforce development entities, fostering connections between job seekers and placement opportunities.
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