Digital Classrooms Are Here: Government Begins Major School Rollout.
The Ministry of Education has launched Phase One of the Digital Literacy Programme (DLP), targeting 10,382 public junior secondary schools as part of the government’s efforts to integrate digital technology into classroom learning and strengthen the delivery of Competency-Based Education (CBE).
The programme is intended to modernise teaching and learning by providing schools with digital learning infrastructure while equipping learners with digital competencies required in an increasingly technology-driven environment.
The announcement was made by Basic Education Principal Secretary John Lekakeny Ololtuaa during the handover of a school bus to Racecourse Senior Comprehensive School in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County, on Wednesday, July 15.
Phase One Targets 10,382 Public Junior Secondary Schools
The Ministry of Education revealed that the first phase of the Digital Literacy Programme will benefit 10,382 public junior secondary schools across the country.
According to the ministry, the initiative forms part of the government’s broader education transformation agenda aimed at integrating digital technology into classroom instruction, improving the quality of teaching, and strengthening learners’ digital skills from the junior secondary level.
Ololtuaa stated that the programme is designed to prepare learners for a technology-driven future by expanding access to modern digital learning tools in public schools.
Schools to Receive Smart Boards.
Under the programme, participating schools will be equipped with smart boards to facilitate digital learning.
The smart boards are large, touch-sensitive interactive digital screens that enable teachers to deliver lessons using videos, animations, graphics, presentations and other multimedia content. The technology also allows learners to participate actively during lessons through interactive classroom engagement.
The Principal Secretary noted that the digital equipment will enhance lesson delivery by providing teachers with access to modern teaching resources while supporting more interactive classroom instruction.
Uasin Gishu County Among First Beneficiaries
The Ministry of Education disclosed that 215 junior secondary schools in Uasin Gishu County have been included in the first phase of the programme.
Ololtuaa stated that similar implementation will continue in other counties as the government expands the Digital Literacy Programme nationwide.
Government to Roll Out Solar Power Programme
The Ministry also announced plans to implement a solar power programme to support the Digital Literacy Programme.
According to Ololtuaa, the solar initiative will provide reliable electricity for schools operating the smart boards while promoting the adoption of renewable energy in learning institutions.
The ministry indicated that the investment in solar energy will complement the digital infrastructure being deployed under the programme.
Programme Supports National ICT Integration Strategy
The Digital Literacy Programme forms part of the government’s wider digital education strategy, following the recent launch of the National Integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Learning in Junior Schools initiative.
The Ministry of Education stated that the broader programme seeks to prepare learners for participation in the digital economy through increased exposure to digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Education officials noted that integrating digital technology into classrooms is expected to strengthen digital literacy, enhance collaboration between teachers and learners, improve access to digital learning resources, and expose students to practical technological skills required in modern workplaces.
Ministry Reaffirms Commitment to Competency-Based Education
During the event, Ololtuaa called upon parents, teachers and other education stakeholders to continue supporting the implementation of Competency-Based Education.
He acknowledged that the implementation of the education system has experienced challenges but stated that the government remains committed to addressing them through ongoing reforms.
According to the Principal Secretary, the reforms are intended to ensure learners acquire practical knowledge, digital competencies and problem-solving skills required for progression to higher education and future employment.
Read Also: Major Blow to Theology Colleges as Parliament Issues 90-Day Ultimatum.
Programme to Be Implemented in Phases
The Ministry of Education confirmed that the Digital Literacy Programme will be implemented in phases as the government continues investing in digital infrastructure, renewable energy and technology-driven learning.
The ministry stated that the phased implementation is intended to expand access to modern digital learning tools across public schools while supporting the long-term transformation of Kenya’s education system through increased use of educational technology.
Digital Classrooms Are Here: Government Begins Major School Rollout.
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