Kirinyaga to roll out digital learning programme for ECDE learners

In preparation, the county has started training all 401 ECDE teachers to equip them with basic Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills. The two-week training, launched on Monday at Kiamikuyu Polytechnic, covers ICT integration, digital literacy, Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) methodologies, and curriculum unpacking.

Governor Anne Waiguru said the programme is expected to benefit about 16,398 learners. She noted that the county has been replacing outgoing ECDE teachers, providing CBC-aligned teaching materials, and offering refresher courses to enhance teaching and learner outcomes.

Waiguru added that selected schools have already received ICT devices and digital tools as part of efforts to prepare learners for a technology-driven education system and bridge the digital divide.

Deputy Governor David Githanda, who officiated the launch on behalf of the Governor, said the county is restructuring foundational learning to meet modern education standards.

“This training is an important step for every child in Kirinyaga,” he said while reading the Governor’s speech. “ECDE teachers play a crucial role in shaping a child’s early development, which is why all teachers are included in this programme.”

He also highlighted recent efforts to improve the welfare of ECDE staff, including reviewing their contracts to make them permanent and pensionable, increasing salaries, and providing digital learning equipment.

Acting Education County Executive Committee Member Millicent Ngari said the training recognises the role ECDE teachers play in early behaviour formation and cognitive development.

“Digital learning is a significant milestone for us. We want teachers prepared for the realities of modern classrooms and the expectations of the new curriculum,” she said.

A Ministry of Education representative, Martin Kungania, welcomed the county’s initiative, noting that digital literacy is a core competence under ongoing national education reforms.

Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM) Chief Executive Officer Dr. David Njogu praised Kirinyaga for organising a structured digital training programme for ECDE teachers. He said investing in teacher capacity ensures effective use of technology in early learning.

Teachers attending the training described the initiative as timely.

Simon Kariuki from Raimu ECDE Centre said the programme will enhance teacher–learner interaction and improve class attendance.

“We are privileged to be part of this programme. It will help us handle ICT tools better, and we’ll ensure the devices are fully utilised,” he said.

Winnie Wairimu from Kimbimbi ECDE Centre said the training will improve lesson delivery.

“Sometimes we struggle using our phones because the content is not clear. This training will help us a lot and improve the quality of our teaching,” she noted.

The programme is being implemented in partnership with KNATCOM, the Ministry of Education, Zizi Afrique Foundation, and Ollin Sacco.