Tag: digital access

Let the Exploration and Learning Begin!

As we embark on this technological journey, let us not forget that the true power of this lab lies not in the hardware or software but in the hands of our students. It is their curiosity, creativity, and dedication that will turn this space into a hub of innovation.

3 min

January 2024

Tagged digital access, digital learning, digital spaces, ICT

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ZOO Memorial Foundation’s launch event for the Kisukioni Primary School Digital Computer Lab hosted several guests from Dell Technologies and local county officials. The computer lab was installed in May 2023 and the launch was a celebratory event to mark its official opening and to give appreciation for all those who made it possible. Kisukioni Primary School is the only school in the area with a computer lab, highlighting the need and importance of supporting digital education.

Among the local leaders in attendance was the Member County Assembly, Kyeleni Ward, Matungulu Constituency, Hon. Grace Bahati Zora, who is also the Chairperson of the Education Committee, Machakos County. The speech she delivered at the event was most fitting and is published below.

Ladies and gentlemen, to our Area Member of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Stephen Mutinda Mule, Area MCA Matungulu West, Hon. Lucky, our esteemed guests, lovely parents, and valued students, good afternoon?

I stand before you with great excitement and pride as we inaugurate our new ICT (Information and Communication Technology) lab today. This state-of-the-art facility represents a significant stride in our commitment to providing a cutting-edge education.

In this digital age, where technology evolves rapidly, having a dedicated ICT lab is essential for fostering a dynamic learning environment. Our lab is equipped with the latest computers, software, and high-speed internet, empowering students to explore the vast world of information and innovation.

This lab is not just a room with computers; it is a gateway to limitless possibilities. Here, students will develop essential digital literacy skills, enhancing their ability to navigate the digital landscape and stay ahead in a competitive world.

As we embark on this technological journey, let us not forget that the true power of this lab lies not in the hardware or software but in the hands of our students. It is their curiosity, creativity, and dedication that will turn this space into a hub of innovation.

I express my deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this ICT lab a reality. Together, let us embrace the opportunities that technology offers and empower our students to become the architects of a brighter, technologically-driven future.

Thank you, and let the exploration and learning begin!

Meet the women benefiting from ZOO’s digital literacy training

When ZOO Memorial Foundation launched their mobile digital program in her community, Mary encouraged all her students to join in…

4 min

September 2021

Tagged digital access, digital learning, women empowerment

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This is Mary’s story. A trainer at The ZOO Memorial Foundation’s first women-focused digital lab. The ZOO Memorial Foundation is currently running a campaign to equip two digital labs at Armstrong Women Empowerment Centre and The Border Hub, to serve women and girls in rural Kenya.

Mary was always going to make a difference. As a mentor at Golden Girls Foundation, Mary ran the Literacy Club, engaging children with reading. When the ZOO Memorial Foundation (ZOO) launched their mobile digital program in her community, she encouraged all her students to join in.

Mary was comfortable in her role as a mentor, but an opportunity to lead was on the horizon. Following successful training with the mobile digital program, ZOO opened their first women-focused digital lab at Golden Girls Foundation and Mary was chosen as the administrator.

Rising to the challenge, Mary received training from ZOO and not only learned how to use a computer but also how to fix minor computer issues. Equipped with entrepreneurship skills, the knowledge and confidence to teach, Mary rose to her full potential.

Her biggest challenge was managing the large numbers of children who flocked to the digital lab. They were overexcited and at times unwilling to concentrate. Mary found it easy to mobilise children to join the training, but maintaining a learning environment proved more challenging.

But Mary overcame this. Throughout her training she had gained not only digital skills, but determination and confidence. As a teacher, Mary asserted herself authoritatively. She trained her students in English, Swahili and Luo. Explaining the mouse was one of her memorable teaching moments. The children who used to run around the village now respected ‘Madam Rakiro’.

Graduation Day

Mary (Right) with her Literacy Club students on graduation day. The students received basic computer skills training and participated in creating their certificates as part of the assessment.

More About Women & Girls

Empowerment is no less important than the tangible digital skills Mary learned at ZOO’s digital lab. She has taken both and used her confidence to make a difference to many children’s lives. Most importantly, Mary feels empowered and believes in herself as a role model.

Mary’s experiences show how computer and digital training have a huge impact, inspiring new goals and career paths. A positive change in one person’s life then filters down through generations and communities.

The skills and empowerment Mary has gained are significant. The impact this will have on her students is immeasurable. By supporting the Sera Program, you can see the positive effect of The ZOO Memorial Foundation and their partners at grassroots level, paving the way for equal access to digital technology for all. As Mary says, “We live in a computerised world. It’s important.”

By Zoe Willis

Sera Program: Empowering women at a grassroots level

ZOO Memorial Foundation is empowering women to fully engage in digital technology and the opportunities it brings.

1 min

March 2021

Tagged computerliteracy, digital access, digital gender divide, women empowerment

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Empowering women at a grassroots level

ZOO Memorial Foundation’s work helps develop, connect and transform communities, empowering women to fully engage in digital technology and the opportunities it brings. This access benefits not only the women but also their families and wider society. In 2019, 70% of those ZOO served were women, and through the Sera Program, women have access to a friendly, open environment that encourages learning and sharing ideas.

Digital training is essential for women to get small businesses off the ground and fully participate in a world that is becoming ever more digitally focused. ZOO’s women-focused programs create a safe environment in which to learn and develop new skills and confidence to assert themselves in digital spaces. This is essential as communication digitally connects not just businesses with customers, but families and friends too.

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By Zoe Willis