Kihanga Public SS Sparks Digital Innovation with ICT Club Launch

On 20th June 2025, Kihanga Public Secondary School in Ntungamo District celebrated a landmark moment with the successful launch of its ICT Club, accompanied by a hands-on training session in digital project applications. The event was facilitated by Kyasima Freedom from KAWA Uganda in collaboration with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). This initiative marks a significant step in empowering students with digital skills and preparing them for a fast-evolving technological world.

The school, under the leadership of Headteacher Ashabahebwa African (Tel: 0702308834), already has an operational ICT Club that has been steadily nurturing digital innovation and problem-solving skills among students. During the launch, learners were introduced to practical tools such as MIT App Inventor, which allowed them to explore mobile app development in a beginner-friendly environment. A total of 23 students actively participated in the training, with others engaged in concurrent school activities.

The primary goal of the launch was to introduce learners to foundational digital tools, inspire creativity, and establish a roadmap for future innovation and participation in national ICT competitions. Teachers and the ICT Club Patron expressed their appreciation to UCC and KAWA, commending the initiative for providing students with opportunities to learn skills that are both practical and marketable.

However, the training also highlighted some challenges, particularly the slow performance and outdated software on some of the school’s computers. These technical issues limit both students and teachers in fully exploring advanced ICT concepts. It was recommended that a qualified technician assess and upgrade the ICT Lab to improve its efficiency and functionality.

A major component of the training included an in-depth discussion on regular computer maintenance, emphasizing its importance for keeping systems functional over many years. Students were taught about software updates, the benefits of enabling automatic updates, and how to handle offline updates in a lab environment with limited internet connectivity. Additionally, the session covered malware prevention and the importance of antivirus protection, as well as strategies for maintaining secure and virus-free computers in the school lab.

Kihanga Public Secondary School is conveniently located in Ntungamo District, approximately 310 km southwest of Kampala, and is accessible via the Kampala–Masaka–Mbarara highway. The school is situated near major towns like Mbarara, Rukungiri, and Kabale, making it a central learning hub for students across southwestern Uganda.

The launch event concluded with renewed energy and determination from both students and staff to take the ICT Club to the next level. Plans have been set for weekly ICT Club sessions, focusing on coding, mobile app development, and digital literacy workshops. The school is also preparing to participate in regional and national ICT competitions, leveraging the knowledge and mentorship provided by KAWA and UCC.

The Headteacher, Ashabahebwa African, praised UCC and KAWA for their continued support, emphasizing that digital literacy is no longer optional but essential for students to succeed in today’s world. He called upon all Old Boys (OBs), Old Girls (OGs), and well-wishers to come forward and support the ICT Lab through donations of computers, internet connectivity solutions, and mentorship programs.

This launch is not just a school event but a step towards transforming education in Ntungamo District by equipping learners with the skills they need to innovate and thrive in the digital economy. With sustained support from UCC, KAWA, and the wider community, Kihanga Public Secondary School’s ICT Club is set to become a model for excellence and innovation in Uganda.