By Richard Kagunda
Board Member for the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), Stella Tchuthi, says she is impressed with the progress of the construction of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) laboratories in the country’s secondary schools under the Connect a School Project.
Through the project, MACRA is constructing laboratories in 75 Community Day Secondary Schools (CDSSs) across the country to bridge the ICT gap in rural communities, enhance digital literacy, and provide access to modern technology for students and community members.
Speaking Wednesday when she inspected construction works at All Saints Community Day Secondary School in Kasungu District, Tchuthi said the project is on track despite being delayed by logistical challenges.
“We faced some challenges like shortage of forex which made suppliers fail to deliver some materials on time. The other challenge was that some places are hard to reach and rains damaged some road and bridges which made it impassable.
“However, I am impressed with the progress as most of the structures are at 90 percent, and if we miss the deadline, it will just be by a month,” Chuthi said.
She said most of the materials have now been procured giving hope that the project will be completed and timely put to use according to plans.
Head teacher for the institution, Elizabeth Chirwa, hailed the project describing it as a game changer and a boost to both teaching and learning.
“I am overjoyed that now we will have a computer laboratory which will help our learners to get information to beef up their knowledge because we have a shortfall of books.
“In the past, we tried to introduce computer lessons but many students were reluctant to take part because we did not have enough computers,” Chirwa said.
Marvin Chunga, a form one learner at the institution, applauded MACRA for the initiative saying it will help students realise their diverse career dreams.
According to the project design, each laboratory will be equipped with 60 computers and three year free internet to the school and surrounding communities.
MACRA, through the Universal Service Fund (USF), is financing the project which is in line with the National Digitalisation Policy and the Malawi 2063.
