Access to quality education remains a major challenge in many developing countries. According to global education reports, millions of school-aged children lack access not only to education but also to the tools required for meaningful learning. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has increasingly emerged as a powerful and cost-effective solution to bridge this gap, especially in underserved communities.
The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed and widened the digital divide, leaving millions of learners across Africa temporarily out of school. This period underscored the urgent need for innovation in education and strengthened the case for integrating technology into teaching and learning processes.
ACT-US and Digital Transformation in Education
Through the Accessible Computer Technology for Under-served Students (ACT-US) program, Embrace Relief has been supporting schools with limited access to technology by providing computer equipment and digital literacy resources. The initiative focuses on equipping students and teachers with practical ICT skills that enhance learning outcomes and promote long-term sustainability.
Recognizing that education is a key driver of economic and social development, Embrace Relief partnered with Endless Solutions to supply 324 computers to schools in Uganda and Tanzania. Of these, 154 computers were allocated to Uganda, directly benefiting selected secondary schools, including Kitala Secondary School.
Benefits to Kitala Secondary School
As a proud beneficiary of the ACT-US program, Kitala Secondary School received 15 Endless OS computers, significantly strengthening the school’s ICT capacity. These computers are designed specifically for low-resource environments: they do not require constant internet access, are energy-efficient, and are easy to use for both students and teachers.
Each computer comes pre-installed with a wide range of educational content through Endless OS, covering subjects such as science, mathematics, languages, and social studies. In addition, the system includes life-skills programs focusing on agriculture, personal finance, hygiene, and practical problem-solving—skills that are highly relevant to learners’ daily lives and future careers.
The provision of these computers has enhanced digital literacy at Kitala Secondary School, improved access to modern learning resources, and supported effective teaching and learning in line with the national education curriculum.
ACT-US Opening Ceremony at Kitala Secondary School
The official ACT-US opening ceremony in Uganda was held on 20th February 2021 at Kitala Secondary School, located along Entebbe Road in Katabi Sub-County, Wakiso District. The event marked an important milestone in the school’s journey toward digital transformation.
The ceremony was graced by officials from the Ministry of Education and Sports, school board members, parents, headteachers from beneficiary schools, and other distinguished guests. The Guest of Honour was Rose Mary Seninde, State Minister for Education and Area Member of Parliament. Also in attendance were the District Education Officer, Resident District Commissioner, local government leaders, and community representatives.
A Shared Commitment to Quality Education
The ACT-US program in Uganda was implemented in partnership with the Nile Humanitarian Development Agency, with support from national and regional stakeholders. Through this initiative, thousands of students across Uganda have gained access to ICT tools that support quality education and digital inclusion.
For Kitala Secondary School, this support represents a significant step toward preparing students for a technology-driven world. The school remains committed to effectively utilizing these resources to nurture digitally competent, innovative, and future-ready learners.