A groundbreaking ICT training center has been inaugurated at Machakos Technical Institute for the Blind, an initiative that underscores Kenya’s push for a Creative and Digital Superhighway. The state-of-the-art facility, established through a partnership between the Chandaria Foundation and the institute, promises to bridge the digital divide for visually impaired students and empower them with critical skills for today’s digital age.
Empowering Through Technology
The ICT center is designed to equip visually impaired learners with essential digital skills, fostering independence and enhancing their competitiveness in the modern economy. The facility is fitted with specialized assistive devices and software tailored for visually impaired users, enabling tasks such as document processing, data entry, and digital entrepreneurship.
Speaking during the launch, Dr. Priscilla Nduku Mutua, Chief Principal of Machakos Technical Institute for the Blind, highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative. “We are thrilled to see how technology can empower individuals with visual impairments. The future of education is digital, and we are proud to ensure that visually impaired students are not left behind,” she remarked.
Dr. Mutua also expressed her gratitude to the Chandaria Foundation for their commitment to inclusivity and quality education. “Lack of access to digital tools creates barriers to success. This initiative bridges the gap and provides students with the tools they need to thrive,” she added.
Chandaria Foundation’s Contribution
The Chandaria Foundation’s generous donation included 10 desktop computers, 10 Orbit Readers, 10 headphones, 5 scientific talking calculators, 100 reams of Braille paper, and specialized software to enhance digital learning. Priti Chandaria, representing the foundation, affirmed their dedication to empowering marginalized communities. “This is just the beginning. We hope to continue supporting other schools and institutions to ensure no one is left behind as we move into the digital age,” she said.
Government’s Commitment to Inclusivity
Joseph Njau, Acting Secretary of the State Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), reaffirmed the government’s dedication to inclusivity. He emphasized that the partnership reflects a broader strategy to equip institutions with the necessary technological infrastructure, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy.
“This initiative ensures that even students with disabilities can access the digital skills needed to thrive in the modern economy,” Njau stated. The project aligns with the government’s National ODEL (Online Distance Education Learning) program, which seeks to provide inclusive education and growth opportunities for students with special needs.
Lady Justice Margaret Muigai, representing Chief Justice Martha Koome, lauded the initiative as a step towards ensuring equitable access to education. “This partnership exemplifies how we can ensure vulnerable members of society receive the education and training they deserve,” she remarked.
Students’ Perspective
For students at Machakos, the ICT hub represents more than just a learning facility it is a space of empowerment. Edwin Kundu, a trainee at the institute, shared his experience. “The skills we’re learning here are helping us become more independent, process documents, and even take on online jobs. These skills will allow us to compete in the job market and contribute to society,” he said.
E-Waste Management Initiative
In addition to the ICT center, the institution launched an E-Waste Hub to address environmental sustainability. The hub will focus on recycling electronic waste, such as batteries, cables, and electronic equipment, while equipping students with valuable skills in e-waste management and data wiping.
A Path to a Brighter Future
The ICT hub and the E-Waste Hub symbolize a collective commitment to bridging the digital divide, fostering inclusivity, and empowering individuals with disabilities. As Kenya advances its digital transformation agenda, initiatives like this ensure that no one is left behind in the journey toward a digital future.
