Students at Ongeche Secondary School in Nyando, Kisumu County, are set to benefit from digital learning after the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Foundation donated a Sh5 million computer laboratory.
The modern facility, commissioned by Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, is expected to boost digital literacy and equip learners with vital computer skills.
“This project is a game changer,” said CS Wandayi.
“For the first time, students here will receive training in computer science and digital literacy. This is not just a win for the school, but a significant step forward for the entire constituency and Kisumu County.”
Wandayi lauded KPC and its foundation for supporting education and other community development initiatives.
“We in the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum are proud of the role KPC is playing. This kind of investment shows the heart of public-private collaboration,” he said.
KPC Foundation’s General Manager, Compliance and Strategy, Zilpa Abongo, said the initiative followed an appeal by the school and aimed to close the digital gap affecting student learning.
“The world has gone digital, and we want to ensure no child is left behind,” she said.
“We believe that even students from rural areas like this can become tech innovators, entrepreneurs, and global contributors.”
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga described the ICT lab as a first of its kind in the region and urged KPC to support other institutions, including TVETs and polytechnics.
“We’re going fully digital in government services and procurement, and these young people must be equipped to thrive in that future,” she said.
Nyando MP Jared Okello underscored the importance of digital literacy, saying, “It’s a shame that many students complete school without knowing how to switch on a computer.”
“This ICT lab begins to change that,” he added.
“We thank the CS for his commitment and for personally opening this facility. Let this model be replicated in other schools.”
He also called for similar investments in Nyando and surrounding areas, commending KPC’s corporate social responsibility efforts.
School principal Rita Atema thanked all stakeholders and said the new facility is already making a difference.
“This ICT hub is attracting attention and new enrollments. Our numbers were dropping, but now students are choosing us again,” she said. “We promise to make the best use of this facility and ensure the safety and sustainability of the equipment.”
The commissioning was attended by national and local leaders, education officials, and community members.
The facility is expected to benefit both current and future learners as Kenya advances its digital transformation agenda.
