Bufumbo Secondary School Learners Begin Building Skills for the Digital Future

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At Bufumbo Secondary School in Mbale District, the ICT Club launch and training created a platform for learners to think beyond ordinary classroom computer lessons. The activity helped students understand that ICT is not only about using computers, but also about maintaining digital resources, solving problems, creating innovations, and preparing for future opportunities.

The in-school ICT Club launch and training was conducted on Monday, 18th February 2025 by Moses Wamanga from KAWA Uganda. The activity was implemented under the ICT Clubs programme supported by the Uganda Communications Commission and UCUSAF.

The visit aimed at officially launching the school ICT Club, orienting learners and school leaders on the objectives of the programme, and equipping students with foundational digital knowledge and practical ICT skills.

Before the training began, learners shared their expectations. Many expressed interest in gaining hands-on computer skills beyond the classroom. Others wanted to learn how to maintain and protect ICT equipment, use the internet better, explore coding, participate in digital creation, and prepare for careers in the technology-driven world.

The purpose of the ICT Club was then clearly explained. Learners were guided to understand that the club will help them take ownership of the school computer laboratory, support proper use of ICT resources, and build advanced practical skills in areas such as coding, innovation, digital safety, and problem-solving.

To support the training, KAWA provided PowerPoint presentations, practical demonstrations, case studies, and interactive exercises. Learners were also introduced to the ICT Clubs website, www.ictclubs.ug, where they can access tutorials, resources, and innovation materials for continued learning.

A key moment of the event was the official launch through the recorded message of the Executive Director of UCC, Mr. Nyombi Thembo. The message emphasized digital skills, responsible technology use, innovation, and the important role learners play in sustaining school ICT laboratories.

KAWA worked with the school administration, ICT teachers, and the ICT Club patron to support the formation of the club and its leadership structure. Students were introduced to the importance of accountability, teamwork, leadership, and clear roles in keeping the club active and sustainable.

The ICT Club Handbook was also shared with the school to guide club operations throughout the year. It will support the patron, teachers, and student leaders in planning activities, guiding members, promoting innovation, and building practical digital skills.

The training covered several important areas, including ICT lab management and sustainability, basic computer maintenance, troubleshooting, internet safety, cybersecurity awareness, coding, innovation, and introductory Artificial Intelligence. These sessions encouraged learners to handle ICT equipment responsibly and use technology safely and creatively.

Learners were also informed about preparation for future participation in the National Conference on Communications competitions in 2026. This encouraged them to take club activities seriously, strengthen teamwork, and begin developing practical projects and innovations.

KAWA also engaged members of the school staff to strengthen school-level support for the programme. Staff members who benefited from the training included Magomu Yusuful, Nandudu Shamim, Wambedde Moses W., and Bwire Amuza, among others.

Some key challenges were noted, including unreliable power supply, inadequate ICT infrastructure, limited time for club activities, low digital literacy among some learners, and the need to sustain momentum after the launch.

The report recommended that the school should allocate regular time for ICT Club activities, strengthen support from the administration and patron, and continue receiving mentorship and follow-up training. Improved ICT infrastructure and reliable power will also help the club grow into a sustainable centre for digital learning and innovation.

The launch at Bufumbo Secondary School marked an important step in building learner capacity, promoting responsible use of technology, strengthening school ICT sustainability, and preparing students for future opportunities in the digital world.

KAWA Uganda appreciates UCC and UCUSAF for their continued support towards the establishment and training of ICT Clubs in schools across Uganda.

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