The government has officially launched a nationwide Information and Communication Technology (ICT) integration programme targeting more than 10,000 junior schools as part of efforts to strengthen digital learning under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki unveiled the initiative at Kaptarkok Junior School in Keiyo South Constituency, Elgeyo Marakwet County, saying the programme marks a significant step towards modernising Kenya’s education system through technology.
During the launch, Kindiki witnessed a live Integrated Science lesson delivered by a teacher at Kaptarkok Primary and Junior School to learners in six schools located across six different counties, demonstrating how technology can connect classrooms regardless of distance.
The participating schools were drawn from Elgeyo Marakwet, Nairobi, Kakamega, Mombasa, Ol Kalou and other regions, highlighting the government’s plan to expand digital learning opportunities nationwide.
Government targets modern classrooms
Speaking during the launch, Kindiki said technology will play a key role in improving the quality of education and preparing learners for a digital economy.
He noted that Kenya’s education system must continue embracing innovation to remain globally competitive and ensure learners acquire skills needed in the modern world.
According to the Deputy President, digital classrooms will make learning more interactive while giving students access to educational resources beyond their physical schools.
ICTA outlines digital infrastructure plan
Information and Communication Technology Authority (ICTA) Chief Executive Officer Jesse Maruti said the programme forms part of the government’s broader Digital Superhighway agenda aimed at expanding internet connectivity across the country.
He explained that the fibre optic cables currently being installed along major roads and electricity transmission lines are part of a national plan to roll out 100,000 kilometres of fibre infrastructure.
Maruti said the investment is intended to bridge the digital divide by ensuring schools, hospitals, homes and government institutions have reliable internet access regardless of their location.
“Whether someone is in Turkana, Mandera, Lamu or Kakamega, they should enjoy the same digital experience when accessing services,” he said.
More than 10,000 schools to receive digital equipment
As part of the current phase of implementation, the government will supply 10,382 junior schools with digital learning equipment, including one laptop and one smart board for every institution.
The devices are expected to support interactive teaching, virtual learning sessions and improved classroom collaboration.
Maruti added that the government ultimately plans to connect approximately 74,000 public institutions to affordable and reliable internet services through the Digital Superhighway programme.
Teacher training also underway
Officials said the programme goes beyond providing digital devices by investing heavily in teacher capacity building and digital learning resources.
Working with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the Ministry of Education, the government has already trained more than 62,000 teachers to effectively use digital technologies in classrooms.
ICTA said support teams stationed across the country will continue assisting schools with technical support while planned digital hubs will help maintain and expand the new infrastructure.
Supporting Competency-Based Education
The new initiative represents a shift from Kenya’s earlier Digital Literacy Programme, which primarily focused on distributing tablets to learners.
Instead, the government is placing greater emphasis on connected classrooms, smart boards, digital content and collaborative teaching methods designed to support Competency-Based Education.
Officials say the programme is expected to improve access to quality education, reduce inequalities between urban and rural schools, and equip learners with the digital skills required for higher education and the future job market.
