Chinese technology company Huawei has completed the second phase of its digital connectivity project covering 21 primary schools in Kenya. According to a statement issued by the company on Monday, the project aims to provide better learning opportunities for students.
In partnership with the Kenyan government and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Huawei has provided high-speed internet access to schools in Kenya as part of its long-term digital inclusion initiative, TECH4ALL. Steven Zhang, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Public Affairs at Huawei Kenya, stated that internet connectivity has made learning more fun and effective in classrooms, and has also enabled school administrators to access online management systems more easily. It was emphasized that in schools with special educational needs, internet access has facilitated remote assessment and rehabilitation services.
In the first phase of Huawei’s DigiSchool project, 13 schools were connected to high-speed internet, benefiting 6,000 students and teachers. According to the evaluation, 98% of students reported that the internet met their educational needs. Additionally, 84% of students said the internet made learning more exciting, while 71% said online resources helped them understand complex concepts.
John Tanui, Principal Secretary of the State Department for ICT and Digital Economy, mentioned that the second phase of the project also included six schools catering to special educational needs and aligns with the government’s goal of bridging the digital divide. Louise Haxthausen, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa, highlighted the importance of partnerships in expanding access to high-speed internet, emphasizing that providing children and youth with access to equitable and quality education is crucial.