Ministry of education launches Sh240 million digital skills initiative for teachers’ colleges

The Ministry of Education has launched a Sh240 million digital skills program aimed at enhancing the teaching capabilities of educators in Teachers Training Colleges (TTCs) across the nation.

In collaboration with the Safaricom Foundation and the Vodafone Foundation, the "Scaling Digital Skills Programme" seeks to equip ICT labs in 35 TTCs, enabling teachers to effectively incorporate digital skills into their instruction.

During the launch at Machakos Teachers College on Thursday, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba emphasised the importance of ICT in education.

He noted that the ministry's investments in ICT infrastructure will support teacher capacity building and facilitate the creation of digital content.

"Competence Based Education Training aims to provide teacher educators and trainers with relevant knowledge and skills required for the development of digital literacy among our students," Ogamba stated.

The introduction of digital skills is timely, given the increasing need for educators and students to adapt to the digital age.

Ogamba said that ICT enhances educational outcomes in TTCs and equips teachers with essential resources for improving learning experiences.

"There is a need to utilise ICT as a pedagogical tool in learning to enable teachers to survive in the dynamic 21st-century classroom," he added.

A computer laboratory. (X/ Julius Ogamba)

Joseph Ogutu, chairman of the Safaricom Foundation, echoed this sentiment, explaining that funding digital initiatives is key to improving educational results in today's technology-driven environment.

The primary goal of the program is to enhance teachers' ability to deliver digital education, ultimately raising student achievement in primary and secondary schools.

"By equipping TTCs with the necessary digital tools, we are preparing future leaders to deliver high-quality education that incorporates technology," Ogutu said.

The program includes building new ICT labs and renovating existing ones across various institutions.

So far, eight TTCs, including Eregi, Asumbi, Egogi, Kamweja, Garissa, Machakos, and Kericho, have benefited from these enhancements.

Joyce Mabwai, the chief principal of Machakos TTC, praised the partnership between the Ministry of Education and the Safaricom Foundation, which has provided her college with two refurbished computer labs featuring 42 state-of-the-art computers, projectors, and improved internet connectivity.

Mabwai pointed out the significance of the Scaling Digital Skills Programme, stating that it will elevate college standards and facilitate the integration of technology in learning for students and educators alike.

Attendees at the launch included Machakos Director for Education Margaret Muirigi, Deputy County Commissioner David Rotich, and Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko, along with other high-profile education officials who contributed valuable insights during the event.