Malawi government’s flagship programme, the Connect a School Project, which focuses on constructing ICT labs in various schools, has been recognised by the United Nations in the SDG Game Changer Award category.
Running under MACRA’s Universal Service Fund (USF), it has reached the finals of the UN’s SDG Game Changers Award.
The announcement was made on Friday in New York, as world leaders prepare for the United Nations General Assembly.
MACRA Director of the Universal Service Fund, Ronald Tembo, said that Malawi has been recognised as one of the 20 countries setting the agenda for empowering lives and communities through technology and said the recognition signifies the government’s commitment to achieving digital inclusion in Malawi by 2030.
Through the project, MACRA is connecting various schools to the internet by constructing state-of-the-art ICT laboratories. The initiative also aims to build 75 labs in schools across the country.
The Director of Science, Technology, and Innovation in the Ministry of Education, Chomora Mikeka, said the project is a significant game changer as it will allow more students and communities to access the internet.
Due to the award, Mikeka noted that some countries have already shown interest in learning from Malawi.
The Connect a School Project provides access to digital tools and information for marginalised communities, empowers individuals through digital skills training and employment opportunities, and promotes inclusive and equitable access.
