The project is catalysing a new era of vocational training using metaverse, virtual reality and simulation tools to replace costly equipment with accessible, high-impact digital learning aligned with industry needs.

This project stands as a compelling example of EU-Kenya partnership in action, addressing the growing demand for Industry 4.0 skills in Africa through practical, forward-looking, and digitally enabled training solutions.

The project titled "Leveraging Metaverse Digital Tools and 4IR Technologies to Enhance TVET Skills Development and Innovation as a Post COVID-19 Resilience Strategy" was awarded to the Siemens Mechatronics Certification Centre at Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT).

Key achievements

• Training of more than 180 engineers and technicians,
• Cut training costs by up to 80%, and
• Unlimited access to complex industrial systems
• Safe, repeatable, and high-quality practical training environments
• Foster sustainability and local ownership through locally developed digital content

The next project phase will focus on scaling the model into a continental workforce development platform with focus on Africa's participation in the global semiconductor value chain. The project positions Kenya and DeKUT as a regional leader in immersive, industry-aligned training and as a launchpad for scalable, continent-wide workforce development.