By Andrew Gondwe

Chitipa, May 25, Mana: Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has said the constriction of computer laboratories would assist learners to access more educational information in addressing digital gap between rural and urban schools.

Digital Communication Manager for MACRA, Clara Ngwira made the remarks Friday when she launched construction of a computer laboratory at Kalenge Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) in Chitipa District under Connect-a-School Project.

“At least 40 computers will be provided at the school. This will ensure that Kalenge CDSS students are able to learn subjects such as computer studies just like their counterparts in urban schools,” she said.

Member of Parliament (MP) for Chitipa East, Kezzie Msukwa thanked MACRA for provision of the computer laboratory which would promote Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the district.

He appealed to the community and building contractors to work hand in hand in order to come up with a high quality and strong structure.

Kalenge Area Development Committee (ADC) Chairperson, Ginlon Mulungu said the laboratory would help students gain computer skills.

"If children know how to utilize computers at their tender school age, they will never be struggling when at tertiary schools. The result is more learners will be interested to go further with education," he said.

Mulungu added that the entire community would have easy access to information on digital platforms through use of the computer laboratory.

Head Teacher for Kalenge CDSS, Aaron Thole said the school had no computers which made it difficult to introduce computer science subject at the school, saying the computer laboratory would present an opportunity for introduction of the subject.

MACRA is implementing Connect-a-School project in various schools across the country.