MACRA Donates 15 Sets of Computers to Lilongwe TTC
With over 600 students annually, the college previously had only eight computers, making it challenging for students to access digital resources.
LILONGWE, Malawi - The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has made a generous donation of 15 sets of computers to Lilongwe Teachers Training College (LTTC), writes Esther Banda.
The donation, made on December 20, 2023, aims to enhance digital literacy skills among students at the college.
LTTC, one of the oldest colleges in Malawi, has been facing a shortage of learning equipment, particularly computers.
With over 600 students annually, the college previously had only eight computers, making it challenging for students to access digital resources.
MACRA, through its Unit, Universal Service Fund (USF), partnered with the Ministry of Education to promote digital literacy skills in both public and private schools.
As part of this initiative, MACRA decided to donate computers to Teacher Training Colleges (TTCs) across the country.
Amos Patrick Tambala, the Acting Principal for LTTC, expressed gratitude to MACRA for the generous donation. He highlighted the positive impact the computers will have on students and the nation as a whole.
"I am truly overwhelmed because the addition of 15 computers means that we have increased students' access," said Tambala.
"Studying was challenging before because more than eight students had to share a single computer."
Tambala also expressed the hope that MACRA would continue their support by redesigning the computer lab and providing additional facilities, such as air-conditioning, to maintain optimal computer performance.
"We would appreciate it if MACRA extended its helping hand to redesign this room into a fully-equipped computer lab and also install air-conditioning to keep our computers cool," explained Tambala.
"Furthermore, having a security alarm and CCTV cameras would enhance our security system and help us identify anyone who tampered with our computers."
Khumbo Kasambara, the Project Manager for USF at MACRA, stressed the importance of training students at TTCs to equip them with adequate knowledge in using various equipment and passing on that knowledge to their future students.
"Digital transformation is happening in all sectors, and it is crucial to train students at TTCs so they can be well-prepared for the digital era," said Kasambara.
"This donation comes at a timely moment as the world moves towards digital advancements."
MACRA plans to donate a total of 150 computers to 10 TTCs across Malawi.
The colleges set to receive these donations include Lilongwe, Dedza, Karonga, Rumphi, Kasungu, Nchinji, Phalombe, Chikwawa, and Machinga, among others.
The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and promote digital literacy skills among students in the country.