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Malawi Initiates Second Stage of 'Connect a School' Program, Planning to Construct 120 Modern ICT Learning Centers

Gathering of school principal heads from participating institutions during Phase 2, geared toward furnishing them with insights on their assigned duties and tasks within the project.

Malawi Initiates Second Phase of 'Connect a School' Initiative, Aiming to Establish 120 ICT...
Malawi Initiates Second Phase of 'Connect a School' Initiative, Aiming to Establish 120 ICT Learning Centers

Malawi Initiates Second Stage of 'Connect a School' Program, Planning to Construct 120 Modern ICT Learning Centers

In the heart of Malawi, the "Connect A School" (CAS) Project is making strides towards digital transformation. Initiated by the Universal Service Fund (USF) and the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), the project is currently in its second phase, with a focus on constructing 120 new Smart ICT Labs across the country[1][4].

This expansion builds upon the initial success of Phase 1, which saw the establishment of 75 ICT labs, significantly increasing access to digital learning resources for Malawian students[1][4]. The project aims to enhance digital literacy and promote the adoption of digital tools, particularly in unserved and underserved areas, contributing to improved educational outcomes and bridging the digital divide in remote communities[4].

At Mnjiri Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) in Mzimba, the project is actively fostering a brighter digital future, indicating localized impacts on schools beyond just infrastructure[2]. The project's emphasis on ICT infrastructure supports broader national educational goals, such as addressing disparities in educational resources and teacher distribution in Malawi’s rural and remote areas by providing facilities that encourage digital teaching and learning environments[3][4].

The key stakeholder meeting for Phase 2 of the CAS Project was held on August 15, 2025, at Sigelege Beach Resort. The meeting aimed to orient headteachers from schools participating in Phase 2 on their roles and responsibilities in the project[2]. Partners for the CAS Project include the Ministry of Education, the National Construction Industry Council (NCIC), the Department of Buildings (DoB), and TEVETA[1].

Professor Chomora Mikeka, Director of Science, Technology, and Innovation in Malawi, expressed satisfaction with the progress of Phase 1 of the CAS Project. He emphasized the importance of the CAS Project in achieving Malawi's Vision 2063 of universal internet access[1]. Ronald Tembo, Head of the Universal Service Fund, highlighted the project's role in extending ICT services to remote areas[1].

Tembo stated that by connecting schools to the internet, the CAS Project is building a strong foundation for inclusive education, innovation, and comprehensive digital transformation in Malawi[1]. The project aims to ensure equitable access to technology, particularly in underserved regions, and will equip students with essential digital skills[1].

Moreover, the expansion of the CAS Project with 120 new labs is a significant step towards bridging the digital divide[1]. The CAS Project, as emphasized by both Professor Chomora Mikeka and Ronald Tembo, is crucial for Malawi's digital transformation[1]. The project will empower surrounding communities and contribute to Malawi's digital era, equipping students with the skills necessary for the future[1].

References:

[1] Malawi News Agency. (2025, August 16). CAS Project: 120 new Smart ICT Labs to boost digital literacy in Malawi. Retrieved from https://malawinewsagency.com/cas-project-120-new-smart-ict-labs-to-boost-digital-literacy-in-malawi/

[2] Malawi Broadcasting Corporation. (2025, August 16). CAS Project: Headteachers oriented ahead of Phase 2 rollout. Retrieved from https://mbc.mw/cas-project-headteachers-oriented-ahead-of-phase-2-rollout/

[3] The Nation. (2025, August 17). CAS Project: Bridging the digital divide with 120 new Smart ICT Labs. Retrieved from https://thenation.mw/cas-project-bridging-the-digital-divide-with-120-new-smart-ict-labs/

[4] Malawi24. (2025, August 18). CAS Project: 120 new Smart ICT Labs to transform Malawi's education system. Retrieved from https://malawi24.com/cas-project-120-new-smart-ict-labs-to-transform-malawis-education-system/

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