The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has continued its efforts to promote digital inclusion through its flagship initiative, Connect a School, which focuses on establishing ICT laboratories in Community Day Secondary Schools (CDSS) across the country.

The first phase of the project, implemented last year, saw the construction of 75 ICT centers in schools that already had access to electricity. This ambitious program is part of Malawi’s broader vision to bridge the digital divide between rural and urban learners while aligning with the Malawi 2063 Agenda. The initiative is being implemented by MACRA through the Universal Service Fund (USF) in partnership with the Ministry of Education.

The ceremony was held at Ngodzi CDSS in Salima to mark the beginning of the second phase of the project.

Speaking at the event, the Headmaster of Ngodzi CDSS, Mr. Sobuza Mgawa, expressed gratitude and optimism. “This project will transform not only the school but the entire community. It will improve the quality of education and allow our learners to compete with the best. The benefits will extend beyond students to include teachers and community members as well. We urge everyone in the community to take ownership and support the project. We sincerely thank MACRA for ensuring that the Malawi 2063 Agenda continues to move forward,” he said.

Guest of Honor, Member of Parliament for the area, Hon. Christopher Joseph Manja, hailed the initiative as a game changer. He challenged teachers to maximize the opportunity: “We must start producing brilliant boys and girls who will meaningfully contribute to national development. In Salima, only two schools were selected for this project, and Ngodzi is among them. This makes us proud, and we will use this opportunity wisely. I call upon the community to provide quality materials and trustworthy labor to ensure a strong and lasting structure. We thank MACRA and the Universal Service Fund for making digital inclusion a reality for all,” Hon. Manja said.

MACRA’s Licensing Officer, Ms. Irene Chiwaula, highlighted that this marks the second phase of the initiative which expects 120 laboratories to be built across the country. She explained that Salima District has already benefitted from three ICT labs in the first phase and will now receive two more. “Our aim is to close the digital gap between urban areas and underserved communities. Through this project, every learner should have an equal chance to thrive in today’s digital world,” she emphasized.

The Connect a School initiative is expected to play a critical role in equipping Malawian youth with digital skills, preparing them to compete regionally and globally while pushing the nation closer to the aspirations of Malawi 2063.