FAQ: Kenya School of Internet Governance (KeSIG)

1. What is KeSIG?

KeSIG is an introductory course designed to equip participants with knowledge and skills to engage in internet governance discussions and policymaking at local, regional, and global levels. It covers technical, economic, legal, and social aspects of internet governance.

2. Who organizes KeSIG?

KeSIG is convened by KICTANet , a multi-stakeholder platform for ICT policy and regulation in Kenya.

3. What are the objectives of KeSIG?

  • Build expertise in internet governance among diverse stakeholders.
  • Advocate for internet rights and freedoms.
  • Increase informed participation in policymaking processes.
  • Foster networking among participants.

4. Who can apply for KeSIG?

KeSIG welcomes applications from:

  • Government officials
  • Academia
  • Civil society leaders
  • Tech enthusiasts
  • Students
  • Professionals from marginalized groups (e.g., PWDs, rural areas).

5. What does the program include?

The program involves:

  • Online tutor-led courses over two weeks.
  • Self-paced study with tutor support.
  • Interaction via e-learning platform and WhatsApp forums.
  • Engagement with industry thought leaders
  • Online exams and participation in the Kenya Internet Governance Forum (KIGF).
  • Certification upon completion.

6. How has KeSIG impacted participants?

Since 2016, KeSIG has trained over 421 individuals who have become advocates for digital inclusion and active contributors to internet governance discussions.

7. How can I apply for KeSIG?

Applications are open online during specified periods.

  1. Who are the trainers and faculty?

The faculty includes local and African experts such as regulators, government officials, civil society leaders, lawyers, digital rights advocates, and members of the technical community4.

9. What events are linked to KeSIG?

KeSIG precedes the Kenya Internet Governance Forum (KIGF), which is part of larger initiatives like the Africa Tech Policy Summit (AfTPS) aimed at harmonizing tech policies across Africa4.

10. Why should I join KeSIG?

Participants gain:

  • Comprehensive knowledge of internet governance principles.
  • Skills for effective advocacy and policy making.
  • Networking opportunities with stakeholders.
  • A chance to contribute local perspectives to the continental and global discussions

11. Selection Process

The selection process for the Kenya School of Internet Governance (KeSIG) involves several steps:

  1. Application: Interested individuals submit their applications online during the specified period. The application form typically includes questions about why they want to participate and their plans for contributing to internet governance discussions
  2. Screening & Pre-selection: Applications are reviewed to ensure candidates meet the basic criteria, which includes affirmative action for marginalized groups such as persons with disabilities (PWDs), state and non-state actors, and diverse professionals from various regions
  3. Selection Criteria: The selection emphasizes inclusivity, focusing on geographical representation, gender diversity, and participation from low-income and rural areas
  4. Notification & Access: Selected applicants are notified and granted access to the KeSIG e-learning platform for the course.
  5. Program Participation: Participants engage in a structured Tutor-led learning that includes self-paced study, online interactions, and engagement with industry thought leaders. practitioners.