Huawei Technologies has partnered with the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Authority to set up a computer lab at Kwale Girls High School. The global ICT provider also donated 25 laptops worth Ksh1 million, to support the Digital Literacy Programme.
The Digital Literacy programme is a multi-sectoral Government initiative that aims to introduce young people in Kenya to online work and provide the tools, training, and mentorship needed for them to work and earn an income through online work.
Speaking when he handed over the laptops, Adam Lane, Senior Director of Public Affairs at Huawei Technologies said the new partnership between Huawei and the Information Communication Technology (ICT) Authority was in support of the Digital Literacy Programme.
“We want to provide students with devices so they can access the internet and improve their education, and provide IT skills to them to increase their chances of employability. This goes very well with the core concepts of the Government’s Digital Literacy Programme and Ajira Digital programme” said Mr. Lane.
Huawei already runs a Digital Skills for Life Programme which Mr. Lane says is designed to equip underprivileged but deserving youths with various skills relevant for the Kenyan ICT sector. The programme is already offering training to 30 youths. The students are currently helping Kwale Girls on how to use computers and the internet.
The initiative that took place as part of the Connected Summit 2017, also received a boost from Avanti, the broadband services group through the installation of satellite internet connection for the entire school.
ICT is currently considered a key driver of Kenya’s economic and social development. However, country’s quest to deliver on its potential as Africa’s Silicon Savannah will only be realized through rapidly building a skilled workforce of ICT professionals including graduates and those who were unable to attend higher education.
“For our youth to be empowered and economically engaged we need concerted efforts from both public and private sector; it is important that all stakeholders pull resources and capacity together for greater impact and long-term results,” said Mr. Robert Mugo, Ag. CEO of ICT Authority.
Young people between the ages of 18-34 years old constitute more than a third of the entire population, while 80 percent of Kenyans are less than 35 years old, this youth bulge presents enormous socio-economic opportunities through the harnessing of their skills.
Featured Image: Standing Back – Adam Lane (Left), Senior Director, Public Affairs -Huawei Southern Africa, Robert Mugo, Ag. Chief Executive Officer ICT Authority and Geeta Dhall, Regional Manager – Avanti Communications are all eyes as students from Kwale Girls High School after a donation of computers worth KES 1 Million.
