Makongo JSS Story

Makongo JSS Students Experience Digital Transformation at Ukia CIC Hub in Kenya

Makongo JSS Story

This November and December, students from Makongo Junior Secondary School (JSS) in Kenya had the exciting opportunity to engage in hands-on digital learning at the Ukia CIC Hub, located just 11 kilometres from their school. Under the guidance of their teacher, Madam Joyce Musyoki, the students participated in a dynamic programme designed to equip them with essential digital skills and ignite a passion for technology.

The Ukia CIC Hub, which was equipped with computers through the STEM STEPS Project, is part of a collaborative initiative between Camara Education and Dell Technologies. The STEM STEPS Project aims to bring cutting-edge STEM resources to underserved communities in Kenya, opening up access to critical tools and training for the next generation of learners.

Building essential digital skills for the future

The programme provided a comprehensive introduction to technology, covering a variety of key concepts designed to foster both digital literacy and responsible technology use. Students participated in:

  • Computer Basics and Typing Skills: Learning the fundamentals of using computers and developing typing proficiency.
  • Digital Creativity using Paint Tools: Exploring creative expression through digital design.
  • Scratch Programming for Basic Coding: An introduction to coding with Scratch, fostering problem-solving and logical thinking.
  • Online Safety and Responsible Technology Use: Educating students on how to stay safe online and use technology responsibly.
  • E-Waste Management and Environmental Responsibility: Teaching students the importance of responsible disposal and recycling of electronic waste.

The program provided not only technical knowledge but also an understanding of how technology can be harnessed to address pressing global issues like environmental sustainability.

Teacher’s perspective: A major advancement for students

Madam Joyce Musyoki, the teacher leading the students, was deeply impressed with the positive impact of the programme. Reflecting on the experience, she emphasised the importance of exposing students to technology at an early age to equip them for the future.

“The STEM STEPS Project is a game-changer,” she said. “It has provided opportunities that will inspire and empower these young learners for years to come. The Ukia CIC Hub is a vital resource for our community, offering access to tools and training that are crucial for preparing our students for the future.”

As the students wrapped up their learning sessions, Madam Joyce made a commitment to continue bringing her students to the Ukia CIC Hub regularly. “The foundation has been laid for continued growth in technology and education,” she noted. “We are preparing our students to thrive in an increasingly digital world.”

Looking Ahead: Transforming communities through education

The success of the Ukia CIC Hub demonstrates how targeted investments in education can create transformative change in underserved communities. By providing students with the digital tools and skills they need, programmes like the STEM STEPS Project are laying the groundwork for brighter futures. As the students return to Makongo JSS, the lessons learned and the skills acquired are certain to have a lasting impact on their educational journey.

This initiative is just one example of how Camara Education’s partnership with Dell Technologies is bringing meaningful change to communities across Kenya. Through access to modern technology and a focus on digital education, the path is being paved for the next generation of tech-savvy learners who will shape the future.

Transforming Digital Learning at St. Lawrence Nziu Girls

Transforming Digital Learning at St. Lawrence Nziu Girls

Transforming Digital Learning at St. Lawrence Nziu Girls

St. Lawrence Nziu Girls Secondary School in Kenya has made significant strides in integrating technology into its learning environment through the STEM STEPS Towards Positive Futures Project. This initiative, a collaboration between Camara Education and Dell Technologies, has equipped the school with 10 computers, a classroom server, and a laptop, providing a solid foundation for enhanced ICT learning. The school has further strengthened its digital capacity by purchasing an additional 10 computers from Camara Education Kenya, ensuring that every student has access to essential technology for their classroom studies.

For Mr. Stephen Makau, an ICT teacher at the school, the transformation has been remarkable. “Before Camara’s intervention, we had very few computers, and access to digital learning was limited. The demand for computer access far outweighed the resources we had, which hindered students’ ability to practise and engage fully with ICT lessons,” explains Mr. Makau. “Thanks to the STEM STEPS project, we now have enough computers to meet the needs of our students. The additional 10 computers we purchased have reduced the student-to-computer ratio, enabling more hands-on learning experiences.”

Mr. Bertrand Eshilache, another ICT teacher at St. Lawrence Nziu Girls, echoed this, noting the impact on Form 4 students preparing for their final exams. “With the additional computers, we are able to provide more lab time for our Form 4 students, ensuring they are well-prepared for their practical exams. The access to modern software and tools has improved their performance, and their confidence in ICT has grown significantly,” he says.

The school’s ICT program has become a central part of the learning experience, driving greater interest in digital literacy and preparing students for a future where technology plays a crucial role. “The shift has been significant. With more computers, we’ve been able to expand our curriculum and offer new learning opportunities, not just in ICT but across other subjects as well,” says Mr. Makau.

The journey towards making St. Lawrence Nziu Girls a hub of digital learning would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of the teaching staff and the ongoing support from projects like STEM STEPS. Mr. Eshilache shared his hopes for the future, saying, “We envision our students becoming ICT-savvy individuals, ready to face the challenges of the modern workforce. We are committed to ensuring that technology continues to play a central role in education here.”

This combination of strategic donations and the school’s own investment in technology highlights St. Lawrence Nziu Girls’ commitment to empowering students through digital education. With teachers like Mr. Makau and Mr. Eshilache leading the way, the future of ICT learning at the school looks incredibly promising.

Ali Gunda Swadri

Celebrating 10 Years of Dedication: Ali Gunda Swadri, Camara Education’s Technical Project Coordinator in Kenya

Ali Gunda Swadri

At Camara Education, we believe that our staff are the driving force behind our mission to bring digital education to underserved communities in East Africa. Today, we’re excited to highlight one of our longest-serving and most dedicated team members, Ali Gunda Swadri, who has been with Camara for 10 years and has made an incredible impact as our Technical Project Coordinator.

A Decade of Service and Passion for Education

Ali’s journey at Camara began over a decade ago, driven by a deep commitment to social welfare. He joined Camara Kenya to make a meaningful contribution to the communities we serve, particularly focusing on providing technology and training to underprivileged schools. For the last 7 years, Ali has been in his current role, coordinating various technical projects that have transformed the educational landscape in Kenya.

“What motivated me to join Camara was the opportunity to directly contribute to the welfare of society,” Ali shared. “Camara works closely with marginalised communities, especially with teachers and children, and the organisation’s activities have an immediate and tangible impact on these groups. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of that change.”

A Wealth of Experience in Education and Technology

Before joining Camara, Ali had a wealth of experience working with technology in educational settings. His role involves ensuring that schools have the digital tools and infrastructure they need to enhance learning environments. He designs and implements solutions that improve access to technology, making education more effective and impactful for students.

“I’ve always had a passion for managing and facilitating the integration of technology in educational environments,” Ali explained. “It’s been rewarding to see how technology can be a catalyst for change, improving education outcomes in schools across Kenya.”

Empowering Communities with Technology

Ali has seen firsthand how Camara’s technology has had a positive effect on local communities. One standout project that he worked on was the iMlango Project, where Camara partnered with other organisations to set up digital learning centres in schools across four counties in Kenya. This initiative was specifically aimed at improving digital literacy and enhancing academic performance for students in marginalised regions.

“Through projects like iMlango, we are bridging the digital divide and empowering students with access to technology and digital literacy skills. This has had a profound impact, especially for girls in tech, who now have opportunities they didn’t have before.”

Embracing Technology for Better Impact

Technology has been an integral part of Ali’s daily work at Camara. He uses it to track and manage projects, communicate with his team, and provide support to schools. Tools like Trello, Slack, and Click-up are essential for coordinating his work, ensuring that everything runs smoothly, and that projects are completed on time.

But like many in the tech world, Ali faces challenges. “Keeping up with technological advancements, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring that systems integrate smoothly can be difficult at times,” Ali said. “However, we always find a way to solve these problems so that technology can continue to serve its purpose of improving education.”

The Road Ahead: Continuing to Innovate and Expand

Looking to the future, Ali envisions technology continuing to play a pivotal role in Camara’s work. As new technologies emerge, such as AI-driven learning and smart classrooms, Ali believes these innovations can revolutionise the way Camara delivers education to underserved communities. These tools will allow the organisation to scale its impact, providing more students with the opportunity to succeed in the digital age.

“Technology is changing education for the better, and I am proud to be a part of that transformation. The future is bright, and I am excited to continue working at Camara to help students access the tools they need to succeed,” Ali said.

A Personal Story of Impact

Ali’s passion for his work was beautifully illustrated through a personal story from one of his recent projects. While setting up a computer lab at a rural school in Kenya, Ali witnessed a remarkable moment when a young girl, who had never used a computer before, accessed digital learning resources for the first time.

“Her excitement was amazing,” Ali recalled. “She quickly began researching science topics that had previously been out of reach. Her teachers reported that her participation in science lessons had improved dramatically. It was incredibly gratifying to see how something as simple as access to technology could open up new opportunities for a student in a remote area.”

Looking Ahead: Ten More Years of Impact

As Ali celebrates his 10-year anniversary with Camara Education, his dedication and passion for technology and education continue to inspire all of us. His work is helping Camara reach more schools, provide more digital learning tools, and ensure that students in Kenya—and across Africa—have the skills they need to thrive in the digital world.

“Camara is changing lives, and I’m proud to be part of that change,” Ali said. “We’re not just providing computers—we’re providing a future, one student at a time.”

Here’s to many more years of making an impact, Ali!

Ali Gunda Swadri
Ali Gunda Swadri
Empowering Futures at Mwaani Girls School

Empowering Futures at Mwaani Girls School

Empowering Futures at Mwaani Girls School

Mwaani Girls Secondary School in Kenya has recently taken a major step toward enhancing digital literacy and improving education for its students. The school has purchased 40 additional computers from Camara Education Kenya, ensuring that all students, including those in Form 4 preparing for their final exams, can fully integrate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into their learning experience.

This significant purchase builds on the foundation set by the STEM STEPS project, a partnership between Camara Education and Dell Technologies, which previously donated 25 computers, a classroom server, and a laptop. The addition of these 40 computers allows Mwaani Girls to expand access to digital tools, empowering students to build the skills necessary for future success in a technology-driven world.

The arrival of the new computers was met with great excitement. The students were so excited to  gather around, they were full of anticipation as they saw the new machines. The school buzzed with energy as the students imagined the endless possibilities these resources would bring to their learning.

In a moment of reflection, the school’s Principal, Dr. Elizabeth, addressed the students, encouraging them to embrace the opportunity: “These computers are not just machines; they are gateways to knowledge and opportunity. I urge each of you to make full use of them and to put in the effort required to excel. Your future depends on the choices you make today.”

The enthusiasm was echoed by the ICT teachers, Mr. Christopher Mulwa and Madam Nicholas. Mr. Mulwa expressed his excitement, saying, “These computers will revolutionise our teaching methods and give our students access to an entire world of information. It’s a game changer for Mwaani Girls, and I’m excited to see what our students will create.”

Madam Nicholas also shared her thoughts, emphasising the importance of technology for today’s learners: “This is an incredible opportunity for our girls. Technology is an essential skill in today’s world, and with these resources, we can equip them with the tools they need to thrive. I encourage everyone to embrace this change and explore the digital landscape.”

With continued support from us at Camara Education, Mwaani Girls School is not just investing in technology – they are investing in the future of their students. The girls of Mwaani embrace the power of technology, they are ready to shape their futures and realise their future dreams.

Empowering Digital Education at AIC Mandoi Junior Secondary School Kenya

AIC Mandoi Junior Secondary School Kenya

Empowering Digital Education at AIC Mandoi Junior Secondary School Kenya

AIC Mandoi Junior Secondary School (JSS), located approximately eight kilometres from Kambi Mawe Girls, has embarked on an innovative collaboration to enhance digital education for its pupils. Although AIC Mandoi JSS lacks a computer lab, the recent acquisition of 25 computers, a laptop, and a classroom server for Kambi Mawe Girls—part of the STEM STEPS Project led by Camara Education in partnership with Dell Technologies—has significantly impacted AIC Mandoi JSS students.

Initially intended for Kambi Mawe, this generous donation has extended its benefits to AIC Mandoi JSS, thanks to the supportive relationship between the two schools, facilitated by Camara Education Kenya. This partnership has enabled AIC Mandoi’s Grade 8 pupils to access Kambi Mawe Girls’ computer lab, providing them with essential digital skills and ensuring they are not left behind in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The opportunity arose during a parents’ meeting at AIC Mandoi, where discussions about the computer donation sparked interest. The headteacher of AIC Mandoi promptly reached out to the Principal of Kambi Mawe Girls. “Shortly after hearing about the donation, we realised our pupils could benefit from the lab,” explained Mr. Stephen Munyao, a teacher at AIC Mandoi. “It was a collaborative effort between both institutions, allowing our Grade 8 pupils to receive hands-on training in ICT.”

This collaboration has addressed the critical need for digital skills among AIC Mandoi students, previously hampered by a lack of resources. “This partnership ensures our pupils have equal opportunities to develop their digital abilities, which are essential in today’s world,” Mr. Munyao stated.

While the collaboration has yielded significant benefits, it has also faced challenges. Coordinating lab access between the two schools requires careful planning. “One logistical challenge is managing the calendar to ensure both schools have sufficient time in the lab,” Mr. Munyao acknowledged. Additionally, there is a need for ICT training for AIC Mandoi’s teachers to effectively integrate technology into their lessons. “As students become more familiar with technology, it’s crucial for teachers to have the skills to maximise its use in the classroom,” he added.

Despite these challenges, the collaboration has significantly boosted the confidence of AIC Mandoi pupils, particularly those in Grade 8. “This partnership has sparked a renewed interest in information and communication technology among our students. They are eager to learn more about how technology can assist them in the future,” Mr. Munyao expressed.

Both schools are exploring ways to establish a long-term arrangement to expand access to this digital resource. Although AIC Mandoi JSS was not the primary recipient of the computer donation, its partnership with Kambi Mawe Girls has enabled students to acquire valuable digital skills, enhancing their academic and employment prospects. This collaboration highlights the importance of partnership in education, particularly in resource-constrained environments. Together, these institutions are paving the way for a brighter, more digitally literate future for AIC Mandoi JSS students.

Empowering Digital Education at AIC Mandoi Junior Secondary School Kenya
James-Jira2

Staff Spotlight: James Jira, Technical Officer 

James-Jira2
James-Jira

My name is James Munga Jira, and I am a Technical Officer at Camara Education Kenya. When I first joined CEK in 2014 (as an IT intern, right before my last semester in college), I had little to no experience using computers in a real-world work environment. I enjoyed working with the technical team to resolve challenges and develop IT solutions to support schools in teaching and learning. I became passionate about technology and education. I realised that technology is a powerful tool that could help transform learning environments, especially in underserved communities in Africa. This realisation deepened my commitment to making a difference, and after completing the internship, I decided to volunteer for 6 months to learn and contribute more and be part of an organisation that could create lasting change.

My dedication paid off when I was considered for full-time employment as a Technical Officer and attached to the iMlango project, an initiative that supported 205 public primary schools with digital tools and devices including networked computer labs and educational content across 4 counties in Kenya between 2015-2021. My role was to: 

  • Ensure the proper installation, configuration, and maintenance of computers and networked computer labs across 205 public primary schools.
  • Manage and maintain an inventory of all computers and related devices in the school labs in Makueni. This included keeping records of the number, condition, and location of the equipment, as well as overseeing regular updates of the inventory.
  • Monitor the performance and lifespan of the computers and recommend or coordinate the replacement of faulty or outdated equipment to ensure the labs remain functional and up-to-date.
  • Oversee the network infrastructure to ensure the seamless delivery of educational content, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure consistent connectivity.
  • Regularly assess the performance of the systems, gather feedback from schools, and provide reports on technical issues, inventory status, and overall progress to ensure continuous improvement.
  • Collaborate with school leadership, government officials, and project partners to facilitate the smooth implementation and operational support of the digital education initiative across Makueni County.

This deepened my expertise in ICT support, systems management, maintenance, resource tracking, and problem-solving skills, and built strong communication and coordination skills. I enjoyed being part of a team that was making such a significant impact by helping schools integrate technology into their classrooms and seeing the positive results in pupils’ lives.

Ten years later, my journey with Camara Education Kenya continues, and my passion for education and technology remains as strong as ever. Currently, I am providing technical support to 14 public secondary schools, 3 County Technical Training Centres, and 1 Community Information Center in Makueni County under the STEM STEPS Towards Positive Futures Project, a partnership between Camara Education and Dell Technologies to advance STEM education and digital skills. 

I am proud to be part of an organisation that continues to shape the future of young learners by helping schools integrate ICT into teaching and learning, and through innovative technology solutions.

Beatrice’s Journey with Camara_ A Story of Transformation

Beatrice’s Journey with Camara Kenya: A Story of Transformation

Beatrice’s Journey with Camara_ A Story of Transformation

Beatrice Wambui, a Form 4 and 18 years student at Makueni Girls Secondary School, is on the cusp of completing her secondary education. Her journey with technology began several years ago at Kiambani Primary School and has been profoundly shaped by the initiatives of Camara Education. This is her story of discovery, growth, and inspiration. 

The Beginning: Kiambani Primary School

Beatrice’s first encounter with computers came during her time at Kiambani Primary School. It was here that Camara Education, through the iMlango project, donated computers to the school. This initiative was aimed at enhancing digital literacy and providing students with the tools they needed to explore new learning horizons.

The day the computers arrived was a pivotal moment for Beatrice. She recalls the excitement that buzzed through the air as the computers were set up in a dedicated computer lab. For many of her classmates, it was their first time seeing a computer, and Beatrice was no exception.

With the guidance of their teachers, the students learned how to operate the computers, navigate educational software, and explore the internet. The interactive learning programs opened up a world of knowledge that went beyond the traditional textbooks. Beatrice quickly developed a keen interest in technology, spending every possible moment in the computer lab.

A New Chapter: Makueni Girls Secondary School

After completing her primary education, Beatrice earned a place at Makueni Girls Secondary School. To her delight, she found that Camara Education was also supporting her new school, this time in partnership with Dell. The program provided an even greater array of resources and opportunities for students to engage with technology.

The transition from Kiambani Primary to Makueni Girls was seamless for Beatrice, thanks to the continued presence of Camara’s programs. The familiarity of the Camara logo on the computers brought back fond memories and a renewed sense of excitement. She was now more confident in her abilities and eager to build on the foundation she had established in primary school.

Thriving with Technology

At Makueni Girls, Beatrice flourished. The advanced computers and software provided by Camara Education and Dell enabled her to delve deeper into her studies. She excelled in her computer Studies classes, often helping her peers on how to navigate to the installed and educational softwares.

Her passion for technology led her to participate in computer club and competitions, where she showcased her projects and won several awards from the school. Beatrice’s skills grew rapidly, and she began to see technology not just as a tool for learning but as a potential career path.

Looking to the Future

Now in her final year at Makueni Girls, Beatrice reflects on how far she has come. The support from Camara Education computers has been instrumental in her journey. She is filled with gratitude for the opportunities she has been given and is determined to use her skills to make a difference.

Beatrice plans to pursue a degree in computer systems analyst, with a dream of one day working in the tech industry and bringing similar opportunities to other young students in her community. She wants to inspire and empower others, just as she was inspired and empowered.

Her story is a testament to the transformative power of technology in education. From the first moment she touched a keyboard at Kiambani Primary School to her achievements at Makueni Girls Secondary School, Beatrice’s journey has been marked by growth, learning, and a relentless pursuit of her dreams.

As she prepares to graduate, Beatrice stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when students are given the right tools and opportunities. Her journey with Camara Education is a story of hope, inspiration, and the limitless possibilities that technology can bring to education.

Makueni Girls School Receives Extra 25 Computers from Camara Education Kenya

Makueni Girls School Receives Extra 25 Computers from Camara Education Kenya

Makueni Girls School Receives Extra 25 Computers from Camara Education Kenya

We are excited to share some heartwarming moments from Makueni Girls Secondary School in Makueni County, where the school has just received their purchase of 25 learning computers from Camara Education Kenya. The joy and enthusiasm from students are truly infectious as these computers open up even more possibilities for their educational journey!

The day began with a sense of eager anticipation. Students gathered in the computer lab, their excitement evident as they waited for the computers to arrive.The sight of the Camara Education Kenya branding on the boxes only heightened the anticipation. James Jira, the Camara ICT support technician, was on hand to oversee the setup and ensure that the computers arrived in perfect condition. Alongside him was Mr. Mbelenzi, the ICT teacher at Makueni Girls. 

A Heartfelt Thanks; Mr. Mbelenzi expressed his gratitude to Camara Education Kenya for their generous support. “We are incredibly grateful for these computers,” he said. “They will greatly enhance our ability to learn and explore new technologies. Thank you to Camara Education Kenya for making this possible.”

The school is one of the STEM STEPS PROJECT schools we support and they requested for more computers to increase the usage data.

Makueni Girls School Receives Extra 25 Computers from Camara Education Kenya
Mercy’s Journey with Camara Education Kenya

Mercy’s Journey with Camara Education Kenya: From Kavuko Primary in Kenya to aspiring computer scientist 

Mercy’s Journey with Camara Education Kenya

Mercy’s Journey with Camara Education Kenya: From Kavuko Primary in Kenya to aspiring computer scientist

Mercy Mulwa, a 17-year-old Form 4 student at Makueni Girls Secondary School, stands on the brink of graduation with a clear vision for her future. Her journey with technology, inspired by the initiatives of Camara Education, has been transformative, fueling her ambition to become a computer scientist.

The Beginning: Kavuko Primary School

Mercy’s first interaction with computers happened at Kavuko Primary School, thanks to Camara Education under the iMlango project. Before the arrival of these computers, the concept of digital learning was foreign to many students at Kavuko, including Mercy.

The day the computers were unveiled, excitement rippled through the school. Mercy recalls the thrill of seeing the ICT devices, a gateway to a world she had only heard about. With guidance from their teachers, the students learned how to use the computers, exploring educational software that made learning interactive and fun.

For Mercy, the computer lab became her favourite place. She quickly mastered the basics and began to delve deeper into the digital world. The computers not only enhanced her learning experience but also ignited a passion for technology that would shape her future ambitions.

A New Chapter: Makueni Girls Secondary School

When Mercy transitioned to Makueni Girls Secondary School, she was delighted to find that Camara Education, with support from Dell (through the Dell STEM STEPS Towards Positive Futures Project), was continuing to support the school with technology in education. The familiar sight of the Camara computers in the school’s upgraded lab brought a sense of continuity and excitement.

The program at Makueni Girls was even more advanced, offering a wide range of software and resources that enabled students to further develop their skills. Mercy seamlessly transitioned her knowledge from primary school and eagerly embraced the new learning opportunities.

Thriving with Technology

At Makueni Girls, Mercy excelled in her computer studies classes. She was often found in the computer lab, working on projects, helping classmates with computer issues. Her dedication and enthusiasm did not go unnoticed; she became a leader in the school’s computer club and participated in numerous competitions, earning recognition for her projects.

The support from Camara Education computers was instrumental in her growth. The access to modern technology and educational software expanded her horizons and deepened her understanding of the digital world. Each achievement reinforced her belief that she could achieve her goal of becoming a computer scientist.

Looking to the Future

Now in her final year, Mercy reflects on the incredible journey she has had. The inspiration and opportunities provided by Camara Education have been pivotal in shaping her dreams and aspirations. She is filled with gratitude and determination, ready to take the next step toward her future.

Mercy plans to pursue a degree in computer science, driven by the dream of working in the tech industry and contributing to the development of innovative solutions that can make a difference. She also hopes to give back to her community, inspiring and mentoring young students, especially girls, to pursue careers in technology.

“I believe I can achieve my goals because of the foundation Camara Education has provided me,” Mercy says confidently. “The access to computers and digital learning has not only equipped me with the necessary skills but has also shown me the endless possibilities that lie ahead.”

Mercy’s journey from Kavuko Primary to Makueni Girls Secondary School is a testament to the transformative power of technology in education. Her story is one of inspiration, resilience, and the unwavering belief that with the right tools and opportunities, anyone can achieve their dreams. As she prepares to graduate, Mercy stands as a beacon of hope and a role model for other young students aspiring to make their mark in the world of technology.

Magdalene Makumi - Journey from Intern to Technical Associate

From Intern to Technical Associate: My Journey with Camara Education Kenya

Magdalene Makumi - Journey from Intern to Technical Associate

Hello everyone, I’m Magdalene Makumi, and I’m happy to share my journey from internship to full-time staff at Camara Education Kenya. My journey began when I first learned about the Internship Programme through my College ICT lecturer. Hearing what the programme entails, I was motivated by a desire to make a meaningful impact in technology, so I eagerly applied, hoping to gain valuable experience and insights.

During my internship, I had a fast-paced opportunity to gain hands-on exposure to both hard and soft 21st-century skills. I also came to understand and witness the vital role Camara has been playing in our schools. I saw first-hand the notable implementations of technology integration, such as digital literacy and skills development among students and teachers.

In April 2023, I had the chance to accompany my internship supervisor, Teddy, for a Teachers’ Training at Khadija Secondary. This was a great learning opportunity for me, and it helped me gain a better understanding of Camara’s mission and vision. It also deepened my appreciation for the impact of technology integration in the classroom—a truly unforgettable experience.

One challenge I faced during my internship was the high learning curve associated with new technologies and systems. This taught me the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.

After completing my internship, I chose to continue my journey with Camara as a volunteer. This transition provided me with more opportunities to delve deeper into the impact Camara Education Kenya has been making in the education sector over the last decade and more. During field visits to various schools, I noticed improvements in student engagement and teacher professional development. I also had the chance to train some of my peers who had joined the internship programme, passing on the skills I had gained. On my way to work, I would sometimes meet teachers on the same matatu and inquire about how the computer lab was impacting students’ learning.

The skills and experience I gained as an intern and volunteer prepared me for my current role as a Technical Associate. My transition to full-time employment came about after a meeting with the Country Director regarding my role in the organisation, followed by a formal welcome in the presence of my colleagues during one of our weekly meetings.

I’m deeply thankful to Camara Education Kenya for allowing me to grow both professionally and personally. The organisation has played a pivotal role in shaping my career path, and I hope to continue contributing to its success and advancing education technology. Camara Education Kenya has had a direct impact on my life, and I’m proud to be one of many testimonies from communities across Kenya. Whether in town-based schools or those in marginalised areas, Camara’s work is addressing educational challenges and creating incredible opportunities for young people. I look forward to making an even greater contribution to our mission of transforming education using technology to empower disadvantaged students.

Magdalene Makumi - Journey from Intern to Technical Associate