At least 100 junior secondary school teachers from about 50 schools in Kwale County have been trained on artificial intelligence as part of an ongoing digital literacy programme.
The initiative, implemented by Teck Kids Africa, seeks to bridge the widening knowledge gap between teachers and learners on emerging technologies, with a target of reaching more than 50,000 students across the county.
Speaking in an interview, Teck Kids Africa Executive Director Paul Akwabi said the programme is designed to equip both teachers and learners with essential digital skills to boost their competitiveness in an increasingly tech-driven global market.
“We want our learners and teachers to be able to access opportunities and resources the same way people in other countries do,” he said.
Akwabi added that integrating AI in education will not only improve classroom delivery but also expose students to future job opportunities and innovation pathways.
He noted that the programme requires learners to develop various AI models using the same curriculum content taught in their classrooms, a move he said will help deepen understanding and enhance problem-solving skills.
Teck Kids Africa Program Officer Mwagodi Epron said the initiative also challenges learners to be innovative in using technology to strengthen their learning experiences.
He noted that the digital skills being imparted will enable students to design simplified AI models that can help them tackle basic project work under the Competency-Based Education (CBE).
Kwale Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) chair Abubakar Mkumbuka welcomed the initiative, saying artificial intelligence is already part of everyday life and must be embraced rather than feared.
Mkumbuka urged communities to take advantage of emerging technologies to boost learning and improve livelihoods.
“As we all know, AI is here with us. It is high time our children and the people around us learn about it and how they can use it to make life easier,” he said.
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Vinuni Junior Secondary School teacherMatsolo Angela said the programme has had a positive impact on her, adding that she hopes to integrate the skills gained into her lessons to better support her learners.
Antorita Comprehensive School teacher Benson Onguso said the training has significantly improved his understanding of artificial intelligence.
He admitted that he previously believed AI was a scam that would take away people’s jobs, but the training helped him realize that technology is meant to enhance efficiency and improve lives.
By Shaban Omar
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