By PPS
NAIROBI, KENYA: Microsoft International will support the implementation of the computer to schools programme in the country.
In a meeting with President Uhuru Kenyatta on Tuesday, Microsoft Global President Mr. Jean-Philippe Courtois said his company will support the Government in training all primary school teachers to enable them implement computer to schools programmes by January next year.
Courtois said his company will work with different partners to develop at least five enterprises in each County to provide technical support in hardware, connectivity and software to all schools in the country.
He said Microsoft will also develop a research and innovation hub at Konza Technology Park to support software developers in the country adding that through Microsoft’s universal access to broadband programme, the company will provide connectivity to rural schools, hospitals and homes.
President Uhuru welcomed the support from Microsoft and said the Government is ready to enter into partnerships that will facilitate the implementation of cost effective ICT programmes.
The Head of State further called upon the ministry of Education and Information Commination and Technology to work with Microsoft in order to come up with a framework of rolling out the partnership immediately.
He said he will not allow Kenya to only be a recipient of content saying that his Government will empower citizens, especially the youth, to develop ICT programmes themselves.
The President also asked Microsoft International to develop a sustainable model that includes local assembly of computers as well as local software and content development which can be replicated in other African countries.
