The Board of the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has conducted site visits to schools in the Southern Region benefiting from the Universal Service Fund (USF)-supported Connect a School Project to assess progress and engage stakeholders on its implementation.
The Board visited Salabango Community Day Secondary School in Mulanje, Naizi Community Day Secondary School in Blantyre, Chigodi Community Day Secondary School in Chiradzulu, and Adolorata Community Day Secondary School in Thyolo, where Smart ICT laboratories are under construction.
Speaking during the visit to Salabango Community Day Secondary School, MACRA Board Chairperson, Counsel Chancy Gondwe, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to delivering the project, describing it as a key investment in expanding digital access and improving education.
“The project remains one of our priorities as an Authority. Its completion will not only provide connectivity to the school but will also benefit the surrounding community by expanding access to digital services and opportunities,” said Gondwe.
He added that the initiative will help bridge the digital divide by providing learners in rural and underserved communities with access to digital learning resources and opportunities.
The Head Teacher of Salabango Community Day Secondary School welcomed the initiative, describing it as a significant investment that will enhance teaching and learning while improving access to information for both students and the surrounding community. The school has an enrolment of 224 learners, half of whom are girls.
Implemented by MACRA through the USF, the Connect a School Project is expanding access to digital learning infrastructure across Malawi. Under Phase I, the project will establish 75 Smart ICT laboratories and provide internet connectivity to beneficiary schools, laying the foundation for improved digital literacy and equitable access to quality education.
