Machakos: The Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, in partnership with Huawei and UNESCO, has launched phase two of the Digischool Internet Project at the Machakos School for the Deaf to enhance internet connectivity and inclusion in educational institutions. The initiative aims to integrate technology into education, ensuring all students, particularly those with special needs, have access to digital learning through reliable internet.
According to Kenya News Agency, Principal Secretary for ICT, Engineer John Tanui, who represented ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo at the event, emphasized the government’s commitment to equipping students with digital skills and bridging the digital divide. By providing video conferencing solutions, the project ensures that special needs students remain connected, allowing the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) to teach multiple schools from a central location.
Tanui highlighted the deployment of digital hubs across the country to facilitate online learning and employment, fostering entrepreneurship among young people. He stressed the importance of collaboration with the private sector to fill resource gaps and ensure nationwide connectivity. ‘We cannot deliver alone as a government; we are working with the private sector to ensure we connect our people and utilize all available solutions to ensure every part of the country is connected,’ Tanui stated.
Stephen Zhang, Huawei’s Deputy CEO, supported Tanui’s remarks, noting that improved internet connectivity enhances education management by enabling teachers to access management systems online, thereby making learning more engaging and effective. Zhang reported that other special needs schools in Migori and Tana River Counties have been connected with internet and video conferencing facilities, facilitating remote access to services at KISE.
UNESCO Regional Director for Eastern Africa, Louise Haxthausen, highlighted the transformative potential of internet access in education. She urged learning institutions to leverage the internet to enhance teaching quality and invest in accessible technology, thus expanding opportunities for learners with disabilities. Haxthausen pointed out that the first phase of the project connected 13 schools, benefiting 6,000 learners, while the second phase has connected 21 schools, benefiting 10,000 learners. Phase three will focus on including six special needs schools.
Haxthausen also acknowledged the significant investment required to equip schools with ICT devices and affordable internet, underscoring the need for strategic partnerships and cooperation from all stakeholders due to the high impact of the benefits.
PS Tanui later led the ICT’s 6th Town hall meeting at Machakos University, themed ‘Unlocking Potential Opportunities in the Digital Economy’. The event gathered over 200 students and panelists to discuss digital platforms, digital skilling for online work, data protection, and cybersecurity. Participants included representatives from the office of data protection, Inua AI, State Department for Basic Education, Higher Education and TVETs, focusing on the government’s role in digital opportunities and Jitume Labs.
