In the rural heart of Makueni County, Kenya, a quiet but profound transformation is taking place at Itumbule Junior Secondary and Primary School. Situated just 3 kilometres from the Ukia Community Information and ICT Centre (CIC), the pupils of Itumbule are being introduced to a world of technology that was once beyond their reach. Through the STEM STEPS Towards Positive Futures Project, a partnership between Camara Education, Dell Technologies, and Makueni County, technology is now playing a central role in shaping the educational experiences of these young learners.
Ukia CIC, equipped with 25 computers, a high-end server, and a laptop, has become a beacon of hope for the pupils. Twice a week, under the guidance of their dedicated teacher, Madam Catherine Mwanza, they walk the 3 kilometres to the centre to attend computer lessons. For many of these children, this is their first encounter with technology. “I’ve seen how technology sparks excitement in the eyes of my pupils,” shares Madam Mwanza. “Some had never touched a computer before, and now they are typing, searching for information, and even working on projects. It’s amazing to witness.”
Despite the joy and enthusiasm that technology has brought into their lives, the journey to Ukia CIC is not without its challenges. The 3 km walk often eats into valuable learning time, limiting the pupils’ practice opportunities. “We lose precious minutes every time we walk to and from the centre,” Madam Mwanza explains. “By the time we settle in, half the lesson is already gone. But I believe in their potential, and we make the most of the time we have.”
For the pupils, however, the distance is a small price to pay for the knowledge and skills they gain. Their eagerness to learn is reflected in their newfound confidence and ability to navigate the digital world. As they continue their journey towards a tech-driven future, they are filled with hope and determination.
Madam Mwanza, while appreciative of the resources and support from Ukia CIC, dreams of a day when Itumbule will have its own computer lab. “The Ukia CIC has been a lifeline for us, but having our own computers at Itumbule would truly transform our school,” she says. “We could cover so much more ground, and the children wouldn’t have to worry about losing time. It would make an incredible difference.”
For now, the pupils of Itumbule JSS and Primary School remain committed to their path. With the continued support of their teacher and the resources at Ukia CIC, they are walking steadily towards a brighter, technology-filled future.
Quote from Madam Mwanza:
“Technology is the future, and it’s heartwarming to see how eager my pupils are to embrace it, despite the distance we have to walk. My greatest wish is for Itumbule to have its own computers so that nothing stands between them and their learning.”
About the Project:
The STEM STEPS Towards Positive Futures Project is a collaborative effort between Camara Education, Dell Technologies, and Makueni County, aimed at bridging the digital divide in Kenya by providing access to digital learning resources and fostering a future-ready generation of learners.
