Huawei, UNESCO, and Kenya Partner to Enhance Online Education for Deaf Children

Advancements in Inclusive Education

In a significant development for education in Kenya, a collaboration between Huawei, UNESCO, and national government bodies has reached a crucial milestone with the completion of Phase II of the Kenya DigiSchool Connectivity Project. Announced on March 14, 2025, this initiative helps connect schools across the country to the internet, revolutionizing the education experience, particularly for students with disabilities. This phase saw the addition of 21 schools, including six especially dedicated to children with special educational needs, prominently featuring Machakos Primary School for the Deaf.

The official announcement was made by Eng. John Tanui, Principal Secretary of the State Department of ICT and Digital Economy in Kenya, during an event held at the Machakos school. In his address, Tanui emphasized the vital role of internet connectivity in improving the quality of education for these children. "We are here at Machakos Primary School for the Deaf to ensure that the school is connected to the national fiber so that they can learn better and contribute to improved learning outcomes," he stated. The project not only facilitates internet access but also integrates a video conferencing solution tailored to meet the unique learning requirements of deaf students.

Empowering Educators through Connectivity

The technological enhancements brought by the DigiSchool project include remote support from the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) for school administrators and educators at these institutions. This initiative aims to bolster the capabilities of teachers while expanding student access to educational resources that they can benefit from anywhere.

Stephen Zhang, Deputy CEO of Huawei Kenya, articulated the transformative impact of the project, indicating ongoing improvements in education management efficiency. He stated, "With these solutions, connectivity is improving the efficiency of education management. It is helping head teachers access management systems online and improving access to educational resources online – whether videos, curriculum, or experts. Connectivity in the classroom is making learning more interesting, fun, and effective."

The value of internet access for special needs schools is underscored by the capability to provide assessment and rehabilitation services remotely, which can significantly enhance learning opportunities for these students. During the event, attendees witnessed firsthand the unique ways students utilized the internet in their classrooms, showcasing the myriad benefits of remote learning through video calls with educational experts.

A Commitment to Inclusivity and Quality Education

Louise Haxthausen, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to collaborating with the Kenyan government, Huawei, and other stakeholders to ensure that quality education remains inclusive and equitable. This dedication aligns with the broader aspirations outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 4, aimed at promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Huawei's TECH4ALL initiative, an enduring digital inclusion program, is a driving force behind the DigiSchool Connectivity Project. Since its inception, Huawei has conducted technical assessments, designed solutions, provided equipment, and managed the project's execution. The project's prior phase successfully connected 13 schools to the internet, positively impacting around 6,000 students and educators. Impressive feedback from this initial rollout revealed that 98% of learners felt their educational needs were being met through the internet, with 84% finding their learning experience more exciting and 71% appreciating the online resources for helping with complex ideas.

Conclusion

The Kenya DigiSchool Connectivity Project exemplifies a transformative approach to education, particularly for students with hearing impairments. By leveraging partnerships and innovative technologies, stakeholders hope to ensure that every student, regardless of their challenges, can enjoy equitable access to quality education. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like this pave the way for a more inclusive future where education knows no bounds.