Private schools in Nyanza and Western Kenya are negotiating a deal which will see them achieve internet connectivity.
The project is part of positioning for the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC).
Through Kenya Private Schools Association (KEPSA), the schools have approached Liquid Intelligent Technologies, an internet service provider to actualize the dream.
We know that internet is a very key component in the CBC system, and we want to use our strength to elbow our way into the system
Michael Oliech
On Friday, representatives of KEPSA from Nyanza and Western regions met Liquid representatives in a capacity building aimed at fine tuning the deal.
According to Michael Oliech, Kisumu County Chapter KEPSA Chair, the aim of the project is to place private schools in the same pedestrial with public schools.
The move comes following declaration by President William Ruto that all public schools will attain internet connectivity by 2030.
“We know that internet is a very key component in the CBC system, and we want to use our strength to elbow our way into the system,” said Oliech.
Ruth Nakoye representing Liquid Intelligent Technologies said the company has worked with over 250, 000 schools in Africa, with 32, 000 being in Kenya to provide internet services.
“When the schools come together, we are able to help them set up the connectivity, and capacity build them around the various technologies relevant to them,” said Nakoye.
She said the company has since mapped out at least 40 schools, with the aim of understanding the various technologies compatible with their locations and internet needs.
MoU with National Bank
Mr Oliech said with over 800 schools in the region, spreading the cost would make the project affordable.
“We also recently signed an MoU with the National Bank for Sh2 billion facility to private schools at affordable interest rate of 11 per cent. I would like to call upon our members to leverage on this to fund development projects such as internet connectivity,” said Oliech.
It is now incumbent upon us to keep up with the pace, and position ourselves to be part of the government’s agenda in providing education
Michael Oliech
He said the facility is also aimed at supporting renewable energy, water and other infrastructure projects.
Oliech said many of the private schools are prepared to host the Junior Secondary (Grade Seven and Eight) learners who will be transitioning from Grade Six.
“It is now incumbent upon us to keep up with the pace, and position ourselves to be part of the government’s agenda in providing education,” said Oliech.