By Max Medson
Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has embarked on the second phase of the ‘Connect a School’ (CAS) Project which is meant to boost digital literacy and transform the country’s education system through digitalization.
The initiative, spearheaded by MACRA and the Universal Service Fund (USF) is set to build 120 new smart Information and Communication Technology (ICT) laboratories, following the successful completion of 75 labs in the first phase.
Speaking in Salima at a conference to launch phase two which also involved orienting head teachers, Director of Science, Technology and Innovations, Professor Chomora Mikeka said the changing global landscape demands a strong foundation in digital skills, making innovation an essential focus.
Mikeka, however, hailed the first phase and expressed optimism about the goal set for the second phase.
“I have seen the completion of 75 Smart ICT laboratories as planned in phase one. The second phase targets 120 and these will be completed by July 2026, if we work together,” said Mikeka.
USF Head, Ronald Tembo said it was necessary for the country to train the youth with ICT skills to ensure competitiveness in the ongoing technological revolution.
“Malawi needs to train its youth if we are to be competitive in the ongoing industrial revolution in the world,” he said.
St. Joseph Community Day Secondary School Head teacher, Lyson Malenga hailed the project, saying ICT has potential to simplify teaching and learning in the country.
“Connecting schools to ICT will be very beneficial to both teachers and students because accessing information from the internet is easier and faster. This will make things easier for us and the students, too,” Malenga said.
The initiative is aimed at ensuring the availability of ICT services in schools across the country and creating a more digitally literate Malawi.
