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.
