Kibaha district to establish computer labs in all secondary schools

COAST REGION: IN an effort to keep pace with technological change and support government initiatives to equip youths with labour market skills, Kibaha District in Coast Region plans to establish computer laboratories in all its secondary schools.

District Commissioner Simon Nickson made the announcement a few days ago during the launch of a computer laboratory at Viziwaziwa Secondary School, facilitated by the Tanzania Enlightenment Development Innovations (TEDI) through its “One Computer Lab, One School” project.

“We live in a digital era where many aspects of our daily lives require digital literacy skills. Recognising this, the government is working with stakeholders from within and outside the country so that we are not left behind in embracing the technological revolution and its applications,” he said.

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Mr Nickson noted that the newly launched laboratory, which has 20 desktop computers, is the first of its kind in the district, adding that efforts are underway to establish similar facilities in every government secondary school. For his part, TEDI Project Manager for “One Computer Lab, One School,” Mr David Pantaleo, said the computers were funded by Drexel Tech Serve, the IT Department of Drexel University in the United States.

“This support is a testament to international collaboration in advancing education and developing human resources through technology. The lab is also equipped with a Rachel Server, a digital library that operates without the need for direct internet access,” he explained.

Mr Pantaleo said the facility will enable students to study science, mathematics and information communication subjects, as well as access educational videos, self-learning content, life skills and digital literacy materials. He added that the computers, which will also be connected to Artificial Intelligence applications, will help teachers in preparing lessons, examinations and adopting creative teaching methods.

He thanked the government and the school administration for providing a classroom to be used for the project.

Speaking on behalf of fellow students, Form Five student David Hamisi and Form Three student Amina Ibrahim expressed gratitude to the government and TEDI, saying the ICT laboratory would greatly improve their academic performance.