As the government rolls out Phase 2 of the National DigiSchool Internet Connectivity project, over 74 public institutions across the country remain without internet access, with only a few currently connected.
Speaking at Machakos School for the Deaf during the official launch of Phase 2, ICT and Digital Economy Principal Secretary John Tanui reaffirmed the government’s commitment to connecting 6,000 public institutions by July this year and over 50,000 by 2027.
He emphasized that this initiative will transform education by enhancing digital learning and improving student outcomes.
Tanui underscored the importance of ensuring that all learners, including those in special needs schools, have access to digital opportunities, equipping them with essential skills for the future.
However, he stressed the need for additional investment in electrification for special schools, particularly those for the deaf, where students rely on visual communication and are significantly affected by power outages.
At the same event, the Kenya Society for the Deaf called on the government, through the Ministry of Education, 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 between the Ministry of ICT and the Digital Economy, Huawei Technologies Kenya, UNESCO and other partners.
The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in public institutions and enhance the quality of education through improved connectivity.
KBC Digital