The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has taken a daring step to digitalise education and revolutionise youth development across the country by launching the “Connect-A-School” (CAS) Project.
The initiative, announced on Monday, aims to close the country’s digital gap.
In his remarks, MACRA Director General Daud Suleman underlined the value of inclusivity in Malawi’s digital economy.
He said, “We cannot speak of building a robust digital ecosystem without ensuring all young people have access to the tools and skills they need to thrive.”
Connect-A-School initiative to close Malawi’s education system’s digital divide
The CAS project, supported by the Universal Service Fund (USF) of MACRA, aims to close Malawi’s education system’s current digital divide. During the program’s three-year pilot phase, 75 ICT labs were established nationwide, benefiting more than 635,000 students and 1.25 million community members.
The program guarantees equal access to digital resources for students in urban and rural areas.
“This means John from TA Chakuzamtu in Namitete and Mary from Wenya in Chitipa will have the same digital opportunities as Martha from Blantyre. No child will be left behind,” Suleman said.
Economic impact of the Connect-A-School initiative
Additionally, CAS has a significant economic impact. In addition to supporting more than 820 small businesses, the project has employed local labourers, artisans, and suppliers, generating employment for 1,350 temporary workers and 525 artisans.
Local business awards totalled over K15.3 billion, including K5 billion for labour costs, boosting local economies and encouraging digital inclusion.
Phase 2 of CAS is underway, with groundbreaking ceremonies at 120 new locations nationwide. This expansion seeks to expand ICT access further to guarantee that students throughout Malawi are prepared to fully engage in the nation’s expanding digital economy.
Matching digital skills with infrastructure
MACRA emphasises that infrastructure alone isn’t the answer. Improving digital skills and matching curriculum to industry demands remain top priorities.
The regulator is still working with TEVETA, the Ministry of Education, and other partners to scale infrastructure and knowledge transfer.
In addition to constructing ICT labs, MACRA is influencing Malawi’s future through CAS, ensuring empowerment and digital inclusion continue to be crucial to the country’s progress.