Bridging the digital divide
2026-02-20
Mbongozi Secondary Students Embrace Digital Learning in Kasungu
KASUNGU, MALAWI — Students at
Mbongozi Secondary School are transforming how they learn by utilizing a newly established computer lab as both a resource center and a digital library. This initiative is part of an ongoing project to equip secondary schools across Kasungu District with modern technology and high-quality educational content.
Mbongozi Secondary School are transforming how they learn by utilizing a newly established computer lab as both a resource center and a digital library. This initiative is part of an ongoing project to equip secondary schools across Kasungu District with modern technology and high-quality educational content.
Through the integration of specialized software like Pezani and the Xulendo digital library, learners are no longer limited to physical textbooks. These digital platforms provide curriculum-based content enriched with interactive animations, videos, and diagrams designed to help students understand complex concepts more easily.
A Library at Their Fingertips
At Mbongozi Secondary, the computer lab has become a vital hub for independent research and reading. Students are now using these workstations to:
- Access Digital Books: Navigating through extensive libraries of e-books and reference materials.
- Interactive Learning: Engaging with Pezani and Padziwe content, which includes lessons for nine subjects at the Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) level.
- Research: Utilizing reliable internet connectivity—including recently installed satellite systems like Starlink—to explore global learning opportunities.
Impact on Rural Education
The digital divide remains a significant challenge in Malawi, where nearly 6 million rural learners lack access to digital tools. Initiatives like the one in Kasungu are critical for preparing students for the technology-driven careers envisioned in the Malawi 2063 Vision.
By providing offline-capable software like the Padziwe Digital Library, the project ensures that high-quality resources remain accessible even in areas with inconsistent connectivity. Teachers at the school have noted that these facilities modernize teaching methods and boost academic performance by promoting independent research.
Looking Ahead
The success at Mbongozi Secondary is a model for broader efforts across the district. As more schools receive ICT equipment and solar-powered solutions, the goal is to ensure every student in Kasungu has the essential digital skills needed to succeed in an increasingly connected world.