St. Anne Vocational S.S Launches ICT Club to Expand Digital Learning in Bugiri

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On 19th February 2025, St. Anne Vocational Secondary School officially launched its ICT Club with an engaging training session held at the school’s computer laboratory in Bugiri District. Located along the Iganga–Tororo Road, the school joined the growing list of institutions benefiting from the national ICT Clubs program implemented by KAWA Uganda with support from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).

The training brought together five teachers and a group of Senior Two students who had been mobilized as the club’s pioneer members. Using 37 networked desktop computers, learners were introduced to a wide range of foundational ICT concepts and practical skills. Teachers also participated actively in the session, each equipped with smart devices to support digital coordination and content access.

A major component of the session focused on helping students understand the core purpose of the ICT Club—promoting digital literacy, encouraging innovation, and cultivating a responsible culture around the use of school ICT resources. Facilitators guided learners through essential lab management practices, such as planning lab usage schedules, caring for devices, and ensuring that the equipment remains operational for future students.

The hands-on training also covered basic troubleshooting techniques. Students practiced identifying and resolving common system faults, running software updates, and managing antivirus software. A dedicated session on internet safety raised awareness about online privacy, responsible behavior, and common cyber threats facing young users today.

Learners were further introduced to coding basics and encouraged to explore digital tools beyond what’s taught in the standard curriculum. These included the use of advanced computer applications for problem-solving and an overview of how networks and internet systems function. This was followed by discussions about national ICT development and how students can engage in innovation competitions supported by UCC and UCUSAF.

Despite the high level of engagement, the session also revealed key areas for improvement. One of the main challenges noted was the shortage of computing devices relative to the number of students in attendance. Facilitators recommended increasing access to ICT tools—either through school investment or partnerships—to ensure every club member benefits equally from future training sessions.

Another point raised was the limited participation from other class levels. To strengthen club engagement, the school was encouraged to involve learners from across all classes, not just Senior Two. This would help promote continuity, mentorship, and a broader culture of ICT involvement throughout the school.

With its ICT Club now formally established, St. Anne Vocational S.S has taken an important step toward equipping its students with relevant digital skills. Continued support from KAWA Uganda and UCC will ensure that the club remains active, inclusive, and impactful in shaping the future of ICT education in Bugiri District.

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