Kakamega schools get laptops in digital literacy plan

"We want to roll out the digital programme for Standard One and Standard Two pupils as soon as possible and that is why we are issuing out the gadgets," said the PS. PHOTO:COURTESY

At least 421 primary schools in the county have received laptops ahead of the launch of the Digital Literacy Programme (DLP).

ICT Principal Secretary Sammy Itemere said the remaining 467 schools will get the gadgets by the end of this month.

The Jubilee government is trying to ensure Standard One pupils have laptops as promised before the 2013 elections.

The Government has two local assembly stations for the computers, at Moi University and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).

"We want to roll out the digital programme for Standard One and Standard Two pupils as soon as possible and that is why we are issuing out the gadgets," said the PS. 

Itemere said over 8,000 teachers have also been trained on ICT and how to handle the devices. "At least 35 per cent of schools have already received the laptops and we hope to complete the project soon," he said.

Mr Itemere said 22,000 primary schools in the country have also been connected to the electricity in readiness for the programme.

County Commissioner Kang'ethe Thuku said the Government will provide security for the devices.

"Our officers are ready to provide security in schools, to secure the devices. We also urge parents and teachers to do their part in ensuring the safety of the laptops," said Thuku.