Junior school learners across the country are set to benefit from a major technology boost after the government began distributing laptops and interactive smart boards to public schools.
The rollout targets 10,382 public junior schools, with each institution set to receive a laptop and an interactive smart board as part of efforts to strengthen digital learning and support the Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum.
The programme, being implemented under the Kenya Digital Economy Acceleration Project (KDEAP), is expected to improve access to digital learning tools, particularly in schools that have struggled with inadequate technology infrastructure.
Speaking during the launch at the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) in Nairobi, Broadcasting and Telecommunications Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke said the initiative forms part of the government’s broader plan to prepare learners for a technology-driven future.
“This occasion marks an important milestone in Kenya’s digital transformation journey and demonstrates our commitment to preparing learners for a future where technology will increasingly shape how we learn, work and create opportunities,” said Isaboke.
The rollout comes at a time when the government is accelerating efforts to digitise classrooms and bridge the gap between learners in urban and remote areas.
According to Isaboke, the programme complements ongoing investments under the Digital Superhighway Programme, including the rollout of 100,000 kilometres of fibre optic infrastructure and the establishment of 1,450 digital hubs across the country.
He said every learner deserves equal opportunities regardless of where they live.
“Whether a learner is in Turkana, Mandera, Marsabit, Kwale, Kisumu or Nairobi, every child deserves access to the same opportunities and the same digital future,” he said.
Outgoing Basic Education Principal Secretary Prof. Julius Bitok described the initiative as a major step towards addressing disparities in access to quality education.
The latest rollout is expected to boost digital literacy among learners and support the delivery of lessons as schools continue transitioning to the Competency-Based Education framework.
For thousands of learners, especially in underserved areas, the devices could open the door to a more interactive learning experience and bring digital education closer to the classroom.
