Global technology
leader Epson has launched a school donation programme that will see 80 schools
in the country receive printers, projectors and visualisers as part of an
initiative to enrich education through technology.
This
programme is part of an initiative by Epson to give over 800 EcoTank printers
and hundreds of bundles of interactive classroom kits to schools and hospitals
across eight countries in the Middle East and Africa region [MEA].
Epson
has partnered with Liquid Intelligent Technologies, who will provide last-mile
support that will see schools receive equipment estimated at a cost KES 4.9
million. Liquid is already working on a programme with UNICEF to connect
schools to the internet across the country.
Speaking
during the launch of this programme, Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ezekiel
Machogu, lauded the initiative, which he noted will go a long way in supporting
the implementation of Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which requires
students to be involved in many practical applications which include printing.
“I further appreciate the role that this
technology, in the form of printers, projectors and visualisers, will play in
aiding teaching and learning, especially in classes with big numbers of
students in underprivileged communities,” noted CS Machogu.
“This initiative and the role technology
plays in making educational materials more accessible to all, have an enormous
impact. Epson is dedicated to nurturing future talent and ensuring that quality
education reaches children, regardless of their geographical or socio-economic
background. The EcoTank printers, in addition to being energy-efficient, the
EcoTanks come with enough ink to last up to three years. This not only makes
them a long-lasting, sustainable solution for schools.”, Says Epson’s Regional
Head for East and West Africa, Mukesh Bector.
Liquid
Intelligent Technologies’ Group Chief Technology and Innovation Officer Ben
Roberts noted that this partnership represents a significant step in enhancing
educational opportunities through technology.
“Through this collaboration, the schools
are benefiting from the connectivity provided by Liquid, and the additional ICT
tools such as printers, projectors and visualisers, are enhancing the impact of
the near infinite access to information and resources that being connected
delivers. Our last mile distribution of internet, connecting communities
of ICT teachers, will complement our partnership with Epson in the last mile
distribution and support of printers”, says Roberts.
Commenting
on the collaboration, Adil El Youssefi, Chief Executive Officer of Liquid Intelligent
Technologies: Rest of Africa, stated, “This
partnership exemplifies our commitment to supporting schools and communities,
making education more accessible, and empowering the youth of Kenya with the
skills they need for a brighter future”. He added, “At Liquid, we work extensively to provide digital skills and roll out
educational programs to reiterate our support towards the Government’s focus on
increasing ICT and education access in the country. This initiative also aligns
with our vision of a digitally connected Africa in which no one is left
behind.”
Also
in attendance, African Union Best Teacher in 2023 Award winner, Rosemary
Bosibori Onyancha, a Computer and Business Studies teacher at Moi Forces
Academy Lanet. Rosemary spoke highly of the programme for its potential to
advance educational opportunities and career prospects for both students and
teachers.
“My teaching philosophy is deeply rooted
in fostering innovation and nurturing the growth of capacities. I am driven by
a profound passion for promoting gender equality and I am committed to
dismantling obstacles that hinder the progress of young students. Despite the
ongoing challenges in integrating educational technology into classrooms, such
as financial limitations and the complexities of acquiring, installing, and
utilising effective tools, my dedication remains unwavering. I believe in
empowering young minds through education, transcending the hurdles that persist
in the realm of educational technology”, says Bosibori.
Globally
Epson has transitioned its technology from laser to inkjet technology, thereby
reducing energy and ink costs for users, laser technology requires heat to fuse
toner to a page whereas inkjet is a cold technology, needing less energy to
operate. With a compact footprint and lightweight design, the products help
limit resources used during production and shipping. High yield ink cartridges
also reduce material usage, shipping, storage and end-of-use management of
consumables, as well as reducing downtime for routine maintenance.