The Kenyan government has launched Phase 2 of the National DigiSchool Internet Connectivity project, aiming to connect 6,000 public institutions to the internet by July this year. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of ICT and the Digital Economy, seeks to bridge the digital divide in education and enhance learning outcomes across the country.
During the official launch at Machakos School for the Deaf, ICT and Digital Economy Principal Secretary John Tanui reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding digital access in schools. He emphasized that the initiative will revolutionize education by facilitating digital learning and equipping students with critical technological skills. The long-term goal is to extend internet access to over 50,000 public institutions by 2027.
Despite these efforts, over 74 public institutions across the country remain without internet connectivity, highlighting the need for accelerated implementation. Tanui stressed the importance of ensuring that all learners, including those in special needs schools, benefit from digital opportunities. He particularly noted the unique challenges faced by schools for the deaf, where visual communication is essential and power outages significantly impact learning. He called for additional investments in electrification for these institutions to ensure seamless digital learning.
At the same event, the Kenya Society for the Deaf urged the government to expedite the disbursement of capitation funds for schools catering to deaf children. They highlighted that delays in funding have a severe impact on these institutions, which require specialized resources and attention.
The DigiSchool Internet Connectivity project is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of ICT and the Digital Economy, Huawei Technologies Kenya, UNESCO, and other partners. The initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to integrate technology into education and improve accessibility for all learners.
By expanding digital connectivity, the government aims to empower students with essential skills for the future, ensuring that no learner is left behind in the country’s digital transformation journey.
