Kenya is advancing efforts to integrate digital technology, innovation, and character development into education as the country accelerates its digital transformation agenda.
Principal Secretary for the State Department of ICT and Digital Economy, Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, said the future of education must extend beyond traditional classrooms to create environments where knowledge, talent, technology, and opportunity come together.
Tanui made the remarks during the official launch of the SIBOH Schools & Sports Academy virtual home in Uasin Gishu County, describing the initiative as an example of how technology can expand learning opportunities beyond physical classrooms.
He highlighted the academy’s values of Servanthood, Integrity, Bravery, Optimism, and Honour as important foundations for developing young people with strong character and the skills needed to navigate a technology-driven economy.
Tanui also pointed to government efforts to expand digital access in schools, including connectivity initiatives, digital learning devices and smartboards for more than 10,000 public Junior Secondary Schools, and efforts to strengthen foundational digital skills.
However, he stressed that technology should remain an enabler rather than the ultimate goal of education. Learners must be equipped to use technology to think critically, create, innovate, and solve problems while gaining exposure to fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and cloud computing.
According to Tanui, initiatives such as the SIBOH virtual home demonstrate how digital platforms can expand access to learning and help students discover and develop their talents. Kenya’s education system, he said, must prepare young people not only to adapt to technological change but also to shape the future through digital skills, creativity, leadership, integrity, and resilience.
