Nairobi – In a significant move to bolster the education sector, 80 schools across the region are set to receive printers, projectors, and visualizers valued at Sh4.9 million, thanks to a joint initiative by Epson Kenya and Liquid Intelligent Technologies. This generous donation aligns with the goal of facilitating the implementation of the Competence Based Curriculum (CBC) from early childhood to secondary education levels.
According to Kenya News Agency, the contribution from Epson Company and Liquid Technologies is a commendable effort towards making education more engaging and accessible for students from varied backgrounds. In remarks delivered on his behalf by Dr. Elyas Abdi, the Director General of Education, Machogu emphasized the importance of these technological tools in enhancing teaching and learning processes, especially in large classes within underprivileged communities.
This initiative is part of a broader program by Epson, aiming to distribute over 800 EcoTank printers to schools and hospitals across eight countries in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. The partnership represents a significant advancement in integrating educational technology in schools, as noted by Ben Roberts, the Group-Technology and Innovation officer at Liquid Intelligent Technologies.
Rosemary Bosibori Onyacha, the recipient of the African Union award for the best teacher in 2023, lauded the program for its potential in improving educational opportunities and career prospects for both educators and students. Onyacha, known for her teaching philosophy that focuses on innovation and nurturing growth, expressed her dedication to promoting gender equality and overcoming challenges that impede the progress of young students.
Despite obstacles in integrating educational technology into classrooms, such as financial constraints and complexities in acquiring, installing, and utilizing effective tools, Onyacha’s commitment remains steadfast. She believes in empowering young minds through education and overcoming the persistent challenges in the field of educational technology.
Mwea: In a significant development for local sports, the Government of Kenya has announced plans to establish a satellite Sports Academy at Wang’uru Stadium, located in Mwea East Sub-county. This initiative aims to provide young athletes with a platform to enhance their sporting abilities.
According to Kenya News Agency, Eng. Peter Tum, the decision aligns with the Ministry of Youth’s policy to initiate talent search activities at the grassroots level. The announcement was made during the finals of a local tournament sponsored by area Member of Parliament (MP) Mary Maingi. Eng. Tum’s message, conveyed by Deputy Director of Sports, Jackson Indakwa, emphasized the Kenya Kwanza government’s policy of nurturing talent beginning at the village level.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has initiated efforts to monetize young talents, giving them opportunities to earn rewards and recognition for their skills. This is part of the broader Talanta Hela Initiative aimed at transforming sports and creative sectors into significant industries. “Sports Cabinet Secretary, Ababu Namwamba, has been emphasizing the Talanta Hela, a program designed to ensure talented individuals receive due rewards,” stated Eng. Tum.
MP Mary Maingi highlighted her commitment to engaging the youth in sports to harness their energy positively and steer them away from destructive activities. She noted that the program, which currently focuses on football and volleyball, will expand to include other talents in the next financial year. Maingi underscored the role of sports in creating social networks and fostering cohesion among the constituents.
Addressing the issue of youth involvement in negative activities like alcoholism and political violence, Maingi emphasized the importance of sports as a platform for positive interaction and idea exchange. She also encouraged young people to join Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, with the constituency bursary fund set to support part of the fees.
Additionally, Maingi urged local youth to apply for passports in preparation for a labour export program led by the President and relevant ministries. Regarding the upcoming Sports Academy, she remarked on the abundance of untapped talent in Mwea, emphasizing that the new facility would provide an excellent opportunity for young athletes to develop and showcase their abilities on a broader stage.