ICT Club Launched at Bulucheke Secondary School to Strengthen Digital Skills in Bududa Districtsddsddddds
A new chapter in digital learning and innovation has begun at Bulucheke Secondary School following the successful launch and training of the school’s ICT Club by Kisubi Associated Writers Agency (KAWA) in partnership with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) through the UCUSAF ICT Clubs Programme.
Bulucheke Secondary School is located in Bududa District in Eastern Uganda’s Bugisu sub-region, on the slopes of Mount Elgon. The school is situated approximately 35 kilometres from Mbale City, the main commercial and administrative centre of the region, and about 280 kilometres east of Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. The school serves learners from surrounding rural communities where access to advanced digital learning opportunities remains limited.
The ICT Club launch took place on Monday, 8th March 2025, and was facilitated by Moses Wamanga, Paul Mboya, and Peter Tusiime from KAWA. The school is led by Headteacher Mr. Mukhwana Edward, while Mr. Watyekele John serves as the ICT teacher guiding the club activities.
Empowering Learners with Practical Digital Skills
The purpose of the visit was to officially establish the ICT Club, introduce learners to the goals of the national ICT Clubs programme, and equip them with foundational digital skills beyond the traditional classroom environment.
Before the training began, learners shared their expectations from the ICT Club. Many students hoped to gain hands-on computer skills, learn how to maintain and protect ICT equipment, improve their internet research skills, and explore coding, innovation, and digital creation.
Others expressed interest in mentorship, teamwork, and problem-solving, highlighting their ambition to prepare for future careers in the digital world.
These responses reflected a strong enthusiasm among learners to participate actively in Uganda’s growing digital economy.
Building Responsible Digital Leaders
During the training session, facilitators explained that the ICT Club is designed not only to teach computer skills but also to cultivate student ownership and responsibility in managing school ICT resources.
Members of the club will support the sustainability of the school computer laboratory by promoting proper equipment use, assisting with basic maintenance, and encouraging responsible use of technology.
Through this approach, learners are expected to become digital leaders and innovators within their school community.
Learning Resources and Innovation Platforms
To support the launch, KAWA delivered interactive learning sessions using PowerPoint presentations, demonstrations, case studies, and group activities.
Students were also introduced to the national ICT Clubs platform www.ictclubs.ug, where they can access digital tutorials, innovation resources, and learning materials to continue developing their skills.
These sessions focused on creativity, collaboration, and applying technology to solve real-life community problems.
Message from the Uganda Communications Commission
The official launch of the ICT Club was marked by a recorded message from Mr. Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission.
In his message, he encouraged learners to embrace digital skills, use technology responsibly, and participate actively in innovation activities that can transform their communities.
He also reminded students that they are part of a nationwide network of ICT Clubs supported by UCC and UCUSAF, designed to prepare young people for opportunities in the modern digital economy.
Establishing Club Leadership and Structure
Following the launch, KAWA worked closely with the school administration and ICT teachers to establish the ICT Club and guide students in forming a leadership structure for managing club activities.
Students were trained on leadership responsibilities, teamwork, and accountability to ensure the sustainability of the initiative.
A standard ICT Club constitution template was also shared with the school to guide club governance and operations.
In addition, the ICT Club Handbook was provided to support teachers and student leaders in managing the club’s learning programmes and innovation activities.
Digital Skills Training Delivered
Learners received introductory training in several important areas including:
- ICT laboratory management and sustainability
- Basic computer maintenance and troubleshooting
- Internet safety and cybersecurity awareness
- Introduction to coding and innovation
- Exposure to emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence
The sessions emphasized responsible handling of equipment, safe internet use, and the importance of using technology to create solutions for real-world challenges.
Preparing Learners for the National ICT Innovation Stage
Students were also informed that ICT Clubs across the country are being prepared to participate in the Annual National Conference on Communications (ANCC) 2026.
During this national event, schools will present innovative ICT projects developed by students.
This announcement inspired learners to begin thinking about technology solutions that could address challenges in their communities, encouraging creativity and collaboration.
Engagement with School Leadership
KAWA also held discussions with the school leadership, including the headteacher and ICT teachers, to strengthen institutional support for the programme.
The discussions emphasized the importance of allocating regular time for ICT Club activities, providing mentorship to students, and ensuring long-term sustainability of the initiative.
Strong school support is expected to help the ICT Club grow into a centre of digital innovation and learning within the school.
Challenges and Recommendations
Some potential challenges identified during the visit include limited ICT infrastructure, unreliable power supply, and the need for continuous engagement to sustain learner participation.
To address these issues, the school administration was encouraged to allocate regular time for club activities, strengthen collaboration between teachers and students, and continue working with KAWA for mentorship and follow-up training.
Improved ICT infrastructure and stable power supply will further support the growth of the club.
A Step Toward Uganda’s Digital Future
KAWA expressed sincere appreciation to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and UCUSAF for supporting the establishment of ICT Clubs across Uganda.
The launch of the ICT Club at Bulucheke Secondary School represents an important milestone in empowering learners with digital skills, promoting responsible use of technology, and nurturing the next generation of innovators in Uganda.
Through initiatives like these, young people in rural communities are gaining opportunities to participate actively in the digital transformation of the country.
