We launched the programme formally with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MOEST) this month, holding a two day workshop in the Masada hotel, Naivasha.
The aim of the workshop was to allow MOEST to gain a deeper understanding of iMlango. The workshop focused on a number of important subjects including: ICT integration in education, an overview on the iMlango programmme, how it would be implemented and the programme’s vision for the future. Representatives from Avanti, sQuid, Whizz and Camara were all in attendance to give presentations on their organisations, and the part they play in the programme.
The workshop went on to discuss important topics such as how teachers would be trained in the schools. To put this into context, the training would need to involve teaching them how to turn on a computer, how to access the internet and basic computer trouble-shooting.
Teacher training is imperative to iMlango as attendance data will be collected on a daily basis by the teacher, using the iMlango attendance tablet and contactless smartcards – which would then be used to monitor the pupils’ academic progress. Access to the internet and to the iMlango learning portal will also be controlled by the teacher – therefore this was a key discussion point for all involved.
iMlango has required careful planning and preparation, and this workshop provided the perfect setting for all stakeholders to align their understanding and vision for the coming months. As we say goodbye to 2014 – an eventful year for all involved with the programme – and say hello to 2015, we are well prepared to kick-on and make significant on the ground progress.
Until next time,
The iMlango team