Eastleigh's Zawadi Mixed Secondary School launches state-of-the-art computer lab

More than 600 students at Zawadi Mixed Secondary School, many hailing from the informal settlements of Motherland, Mugunda, and Kiambiu, are poised to experience a significant advancement in their education.

This was after the school launched a state-of-the-art computer laboratory, providing students—some of whom have never previously engaged with technology—the chance to acquire essential digital skills.

The new facility, equipped with 50 modern computers, is set to transform the way students learn and interact with technology, equipping them for a future where digital literacy is essential for success. For many students, this was their first opportunity to use the newly installed computers.

Kamukunji Member of Parliament Yusuf Hassan presided over the launch event on Monday, which was attended by the school's Board of Management, led by Chairlady Margaret Gitiya.

The funding for the computers was sourced from the Maintenance and Improvement Funds allocated by the Ministry of Education. These funds were designated to enhance the school's infrastructure and educational resources.

During the event, MP Yusuf Hassan praised the rapid development of Zawadi Mixed Secondary School. He highlighted the importance of the school to the local community, particularly in providing access to education for students from informal settlements.

The MP encouraged the students to take full advantage of the opportunities provided to them, urging them to focus on their studies as a means to improve their future prospects.

The state-of-the-art computer laboratory unveiled at Zawadi Mixed Secondary School on Monday, September 30, 2024. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

"I just want to encourage you to use the opportunity that you have here to work hard and to perform well. Your future is in your hands," he told the students.

The school's principal, Julius Kitonga, noted that the institution has been experiencing consistent growth. He attributed this to both improvements in infrastructure and an increase in the number of students.

According to Kitonga, the quality of the infrastructure and education offered at Zawadi Mixed Secondary School has attracted students from various parts of the community, resulting in better performance in national exams.

"The school has been growing exponentially since it was established. The performance has never gone down; it has always been going up, and we have been sending students to the university," said Kitonga.

The school has also excelled in extracurricular activities. Last term, the school's music team ranked fourth nationally in a competition held at Moi Girls in Eldoret.

Chairlady Margaret Gitiya expressed optimism about the future of the school, saying that both teachers and students are committed to improving the school's performance, with ambitions of competing with national schools in academic and extracurricular fields.

Gitiya also mentioned the positive impact the new computer lab has had on the teachers and students.

"I am very happy; this has really motivated the teachers and the students, and we only believe that the sky will be our limit," she said.

The state-of-the-art computer laboratory at Zawadi Mixed Secondary School. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)