Kang’aru Digital Hub, formerly a physical library with limited digital resources, has undergone a remarkable transformation, now offering comprehensive digital skills training to learners, teachers, and youths within the Kairi community. The hub’s upgrade to become a digital facility has significantly expanded its capacity, accommodating over 600 learners and hosting up to 75 learners per hour in its two labs. This upgrade includes the adoption of Chromebooks, which rely entirely on the Internet to function effectively. 

However, the initial internet bandwidth of 5mbps proved insufficient to support the growing number of learners at the hub. During the November – December 2023 holiday training, where over 530 learners participated, the limited bandwidth led to challenges such as slow document loading and difficulty accessing web resources. To mitigate these issues, instructors resorted to using personal phone data bundles to connect Chromebooks and facilitate lessons, which impacted the overall effectiveness of the training. 

In a significant development, Kang’aru Digital Hub recently underwent a major internet upgrade, courtesy of Liquid Telecoms. With internet speeds ranging between 75mbps and 90mbps when all Chromebooks are in use, the hub can now deliver seamless digital skills training. Learners are empowered to independently launch Google Docs, conduct online research, and engage in interactive learning activities. Instructors can efficiently mark attendance registers, enhancing the overall learning experience. 

This milestone marks a significant advancement for Kang’aru Digital Hub in fulfilling its primary objective of empowering the Kairi community, learners, and teachers with essential digital skills. The upgraded infrastructure ensures that the hub remains at the forefront of digital education, facilitating equitable access to technology and fostering digital literacy among community members. 

Written by Evelyn Omollo, Computer Instructor at Kang’aru Digital Hub