Uasin gishu: In an effort to enhance digital literacy among young learners, the Uasin Gishu County Government, in partnership with Nairobi-based business incubator iHub, has initiated a two-day training program for Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) coordinators. The program aims to digitize learning in early childhood education centers, with an initial pilot phase set to roll out in ten learning centers across the county.
According to Kenya News Agency, the initiative is part of a broader digital literacy effort aimed at ensuring local learners remain competitive in an increasingly digital learning environment. During the official opening of the training, Chief Officer for Education Eunice Suter emphasized the county government's commitment to the project. Suter highlighted the significance of starting digital learning at an early age and described the initiative as planting a seed of innovation and creativity among the learners.
Peter Ruto, Director for Education, reiterated the county's dedication to supporting ECDE teachers in integrating the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) with digital readiness as a crucial component. The initiative, part of the Sub-Saharan Africa EdTech Fund, seeks to improve literacy and numeracy outcomes by equipping trained teachers with digital tools, structured lesson plans, and personalized assessment capabilities.
SEF Project Lead Harry Ochieng expressed optimism about the collaboration with Uasin Gishu County's Department of Education, aiming for both immediate and long-term benefits for learners. Ochieng stated that the project is designed to prepare learners for future challenges by providing essential digital skills.
The program is currently operational in Kenya and Nigeria, with pilot projects in four Kenyan counties: Nairobi, Kajiado, Mombasa, and Uasin Gishu.