Gov't begins distribution of 10,000 digital learning devices for JSS schools

The event held at the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA), Nairobi, was graced by officials from the Ministry of Education, Parliament, the World Bank, the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy and the ICT Authority.

10,380 schools across the country are set to receive teacher laptops alongside 65-inch interactive smart boards. Officials tested the devices’ capabilities by conducting a live digital remote lesson with learners from New Mukuru Primary School.

During the event, Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie opined that this was a major milestone in establishing Kenya as a technological leader in Africa.

“By integrating technology into our classrooms, we are equipping learners with the skills needed to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and reinforcing Kenya's position as a leader in ICT and the digital economy," said Kiarie, also the Chairperson of the National Assembly Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation.

According to the government, more than 30,000km of fibre optic infrastructure had been deployed nationwide, with over 8000 public institutions connected to the internet. Further, they reiterated their vision of building a digitally connected and knowledge-driven economy, leaving no learner behind.

Stephen Isaboke, the PS State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, argued that the devices were not only an investment in human capital but also for future prosperity in innovation for national development.

"These devices will make lessons more visual, interactive and engaging, supporting digital literacy from an early stage and helping young Kenyans develop the skills increasingly required in today's labour market," said Aneliya Muller, KDEAP Task Leader at the World Bank.