Safaricom foundation handover computers to Lariak primary

By Bob Aston 

Safaricom Foundation on September 10, 2013 was at Sipili to handover computers, accessories and furniture to Lariak Primary School in Laikipia County. The event which brought together various stakeholders in the education sector was graced by Safaricom Foundation committee member Kenneth Kiprop.

Kenneth from Safaricom Foundation addressing the gathering

The ceremony started with a prayer session which was led by Mrs. Kariuki. Area Chief Paul Nasky welcomed all the guests to Sipili.

The Foundation handed over equipment worth five hundred thousand shillings (Ksh 500,000).The items included 15 computers, 34 VIP seats, 34 power cables, projector, server and a printer.

Safaricom Foundation provides a formal process for charitable contributions to communities, community groups and Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Kenya who are key partners in responding to social and economic development issues in the country.   

Speaking during the event, Charity Kamau from Lariak Primary school said: “Members of science department felt it was nice to have a computer laboratory. We started with a panel which incorporated teachers, parents and the local community. We then organized a fundraising and we managed to buy five computers.”

“We though a computer lab would help to improve quality of learning and also human resource development.” Charity added.

Lariak School administration highlighted the challenges that they had to face during the initial stages of the project. Lack of infrastructure was mentioned as a major challenge. The school had to overcome this challenge by converting one of the classes into a computer laboratory. Lack of ICT skills, internet connectivity and resistance to change by some parents is among the challenges the school currently faces.

Pupils using the computers

The school Headmaster, Mr. Peter Kariuki, thanked the Foundation for the kind gesture. He informed the guests that the computer lab has already had a significant impact in the community as parents, teachers, pupils and neighboring schools are currently using the computer lab.

“We sincerely thank Safaricom Foundation for this development. This project is not just for Lariak primary school but for the whole community. Neighbouring schools are already bringing their pupils to the school to attend computer classes.” said Peter.

Area Education Officer (AEO) talked of computers as a resource. Mr.Keru said that computer is the most important learning tool and that Lariak is the only primary school in Laikipia County with a computer laboratory.

“As long as you are literate you should have basic computer skills.” Said Mr. Keru.

Safaricom Foundation committee member Kenneth Kiprop told the gathering that they are returning to the community what they have invested in Safaricom. Kiprop said that the investment in computer was informed by the need to raise education standards in Sipili, as a prerequisite to development. 

Adams Kimani, who is a former student of the school and now works with the Foundation, informed the school that they have formed a facebook group and they are exploring various ways in which they can bring further development in Sipili.