New digital skills program rolled out in 35 teacher training colleges in Kenya

ANNE KANGERO-KNA 

The Ministry of Education has launched a Sh240-million digital skills program for teachers in various teacher training col leges (TTCs) across the country. 

The program, dubbed the “Scaling Digital Skills Program,” is funded through the Safaricom and Vodafone Foundations. 

This initiative aims to equip ICT labs in 35 TTCs nationwide, enhancing teachers’ capacity to integrate and utilize ICT skills in teaching and learning. 

According to Education Cabi net Secretary Julius Ogamba, who presided over the launch at Machakos Teachers College, the ministry has invested in ICT infrastructure to bolster teachers’ capacity building and the development of digital content. 

Ogamba noted that the launch of the digital skills pro gram is timely, as it is being implemented in the digital era when both teachers and learners require these skills.

 “Competence-Based Education Training (CBET) aims to equip teacher educators and trainers with the relevant knowledge and skills necessary for developing digital literacy among our learners,” the CS stated. 

He emphasized the importance of using ICT in learning and training, which enhances educational outcomes in TTCs by providing teachers with the right tools to improve and enrich learning. 

“There is a need to utilize ICT as a pedagogical tool in education to enable teach ers to thrive in the dynamic 21st-century classroom,” Ogamba added.

Safaricom Foundation Chairman Joseph Ogutu stated that one of the ways to improve educational outcomes in the digital age is by investing in digital programs that positively impact both teachers and learners.

On her part, Machakos TTC Chief Principal Joyce Mabwai commended the partner ship between the Ministry of education and Safaricom Foundation.

She said through the collaboration, her school benefited from two renovated computer labs equipped with 42 new and advanced computers, projectors and better internet access.