Konza Digital Laboratory Empowers Students and Local Youth

BY MOURINE M'MASI

ADM: SCJ/017/2023

Rongo's Konza Digital Laboratory, launched in June 2023, is equipping students and local youth with digital skills, opening up new opportunities for economic empowerment. The laboratory, equipped with 100 modern computers, aims to support e-commerce, research, and entrepreneurship initiatives in the region. ICT Minister Eliud Owalo emphasized that the government plans to establish similar digital laboratories in all wards, providing young people with access to digital skills and opportunities.

The laboratory is expected to have a significant impact on the local community, enabling young people to engage in online businesses, access digital services, and participate in the global economy. The laboratory will also provide training and capacity-building programs for students and local youth, equipping them with the skills needed to compete in the digital economy.

Rongo's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Samuel Gudu, noted that the donation of the digital laboratory is a testament to the government's commitment to supporting education and innovation in the region. The laboratory will also be used to support research and innovation initiatives at the university, including the development of digital solutions to address local challenges. 

The Konza Digital Laboratory is part of a larger initiative to promote digital literacy and inclusion in Kenya. The government aims to establish digital laboratories in all 290 constituencies, providing access to digital skills and opportunities for young people across the country. The laboratory will also collaborate with local businesses and organizations to provide internship and job opportunities for students and graduates, promoting economic empowerment and development in the region.

The laboratory has already started making an impact, with over 500 students and youth benefiting from its programs and services. The laboratory plans to expand its offerings to

Include copping and programming courses equipping students with the skills needed to participate in the digital economy