By George Bulombola

Karonga, May 20, Mana: Minister of Youth and Sports, Uchizi Mkandawire, Monday said access to digital services and technologies is a fundamental right for all and not just a privilege for those who can afford it.

 Mkandawire who is also Member of Parliament for Karonga South made the remarks at Khwawa Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) in Karonga when he presided over construction of an information and communication technology computer laboratory under Connect a School (CAS) Project

Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) in collaboration with Ministry of Information and Digitalisation and Ministry of Education will implement the CAS Project with funding from Universal Service Fund.

The project will see such laboratories being established in 75 schools, including 73 CDSS, one national government secondary school, and one pilot primary school.

across the country.

He said the 2023 National Survey on Access and Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) report indicated that adoption of ICT services and technologies is higher in urban than rural areas.

Mkandawire added that the report also revealed that over 6 million learners in both public primary and secondary schools have no access to ICT services, hence the project.

“This event is a testimony that MACRA is aware of this challenge and promotes inclusivity to ensure that no one is left behind when it comes to accessing digital services and technologies,” said Mkandawire.

He added that the initiative which is the first of its kind in Malawi, will bring to life National ICT Policy, align with the youth-centric Malawi 2063 which priory’s digitalization, among others.

“This is a reflection of President Chakwera’s unwavering commitment to transforming Malawi into a digitally empowered nation as he has consistently emphasized the importance of youth empowerment, education, and technological advancement as pillars for national development,” he said.

The minister also noted that the project aims at providing students with the essential tools and skills for them to thrive in the 21st century.

Head teacher for the school, Victor Mkandawire commended MACRA for the initiative which he said will be a motivating factor to students to have interest in ICT studies.

“This world is becoming ICT driven, hence the need to put such structures in place so that there is inclusive access to such services by young people including students across the country,” said Mkandawire.