Malawi to Construct 75 ICT Labs in Secondary Schools, Enhancing Digital Inclusion
Malawi plans to build 75 ICT Labs in secondary schools to bridge the digital divide and promote human capital development.
LILONGWE, MALAWI — The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) and the Ministry of Education have announced plans to construct 75 ICT Labs in selected secondary schools across the country, writes Winston Mwale.
This was disclosed at a management meeting on Monday when officials from the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) and Pakwathu Consultants presented the detailed designs for the ICT Lab to Senior Officials from the Ministry of Education (MoE).
This initiative aims to address the lack of technological and physical infrastructure in schools and promote digital inclusion.
Associate Prof. Chomora Mikeka, Director for Science Technology and Innovation in the Ministry of Education expressed optimism about the progress made towards fulfilling MW2063 Enabler Number 5, which focuses on digital inclusion and human capital development.
"Currently, only 241 out of 1,610 secondary schools offer Computer Studies due to the lack of technological and physical infrastructure. MACRA, through the Universal Service Fund (USF), will construct 100 ICT Labs annually for the next 5 years under Phase 1 of the Ministry's 'Connect-a-School Project,'" said Prof. Mikeka.
Ronald Tembo, Head of USF, confirmed that construction is scheduled to begin in the next quarter.
He also highlighted the importance of equipping Teacher Training Colleges (TTCs) with ICT equipment and digital skills to ensure effective utilization and maintenance of the technologies installed in the ICT Labs.
Furthermore, MACRA, in collaboration with the Ministry, is working on reviewing the primary and secondary school curricula to align them with the requirements of the digital economy.
The establishment of Sign Language Clubs in public secondary schools across the country is also being considered to ensure inclusivity.
Moses Yakobe, a Senior Official of Pakwathu Consultants, assured the Ministry that the project would be of high quality and deliver the expected results.
Chikondano Mussa, the Secretary for Education, confirmed that the Ministry has approved Pakwathu Consultants, through MACRA, to proceed with program implementation after being satisfied with their presentation.
The construction of these ICT Labs is a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and providing students with access to modern technology, thereby enhancing their educational opportunities and preparing them for the digital era.