Bridging the Digital Divide

Completed (Phase 1) / OngoingMay 2025 – July 2025 (and ongoing initiatives)Musembe Senior School, Musembe Junior School, Angayu Junior & Senior, Mbajo Junior & Senior, Chekalini Junior School

Established computer labs and internet connectivity across 7 schools, training students in digital literacy and supporting community engagement through sports tournaments.

Project Overview

The Bridging the Digital Divide (BDD) Project was conceived to improve access to digital technology and internet connectivity for students in rural Kenya. The project made several key adjustments to expand its impact, redistributing computers from 4 to 7 schools and increasing Starlink internet units from 3 to 4.

Computer lab setup
Digital literacy training
Community engagement event

Objectives

  • Improve access to digital technology for rural students
  • Establish internet connectivity across multiple schools
  • Provide digital literacy training to students and community members
  • Create sustainable technology access programs

Outcomes

  • Expanded computer distribution from 4 to 7 schools based on student population
  • Increased Starlink internet units from 3 to 4 for improved connectivity
  • Established Musembe Senior School Computer Lab with 8 desktop computers
  • Implemented wired network and amplifier for high-speed internet access

Project Phases

Phase 1: Infrastructure & Distribution

Completed

Computer redistribution to 7 schools and Starlink internet setup

Phase 2: Digital Literacy Training

Completed

Training programs led by KENSAP volunteers for students and community

Phase 3: Community Engagement

Completed

Soccer tournaments and community sessions promoting digital literacy

Volunteer Contributions

  • Hosea Manyasa (University of Pennsylvania) - Project planning and digital literacy training
  • Agnes Ndanu (Colgate University) - Student training and program coordination

Additional Donor Support

  • Rashid Lundu: Final-year student sitting for November 2025 national exams (school fees sponsored)
  • Daniel Kipkorir: Expected to graduate in 2026 (school fees sponsored)

Official Launch

The BDD Project was officially launched on July 7, 2025 under the new organization name Utando Kenya. The launch featured soccer tournaments with Musembe, Angayu, Mbajo, and Chekalini schools, distribution of computers to seven schools, and community sessions promoting digital literacy and CBE learning opportunities.

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to President Hiram Chodosh, The Keck Center led by Prof. Hilary Appel, KENSAP, and all community members and leaders for making this project a success.

Impact

The BDD Project successfully expanded digital access, improved connectivity, and strengthened digital literacy in rural Kenyan schools—helping students thrive in a technology-driven future. Over 200 community members were engaged through various activities.

Future Engagement

Continued expansion of digital literacy programs and sustainable technology maintenance. Plans to replicate the model in additional rural schools and strengthen community-led technology initiatives.