From Resistance to Reliance: Sammy’s Journey with Information Technology

From Resistance to Reliance: Sammy’s Journey with Information Technology 

For Mr. Sammy Kiranga Eshumira, Senior Teacher at The Salvation Army Likoni School for the Visually Impaired, technology was once something he resisted. Today, his Chromebook is an essential part of how he teaches, leads and serves his community. 

As a teacher employed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), Sammy had initially viewed information and communication technology (ICT) with deep skepticism. He believed that computers threatened the role of Braille and would ultimately replace a tool that had been central to the education of students who are blind. 

When the school welcomed the inABLE programme and introduced computer training to its teachers, Sammy remained unconvinced. The lab instructors had set aside 70 minutes during school breaks each day for teacher training, but he routinely found reasons to be elsewhere. 

That began to change when teachers were provided with individual Chromebooks and headphones, supported by a team of patient inABLE instructors: Charity Samba, Amina Samuel, Clif Chomba and lead instructor Eunice Kilungu.   

From resistance to confidence  

Eunice and Charity worked with Sammy patiently, helping him build his confidence; one skill at a time. They introduced him to Typer Online to strengthen his typing skills and supported him as he became familiar with the Chromebook. 

Gradually, his attitude changed. The device that he had once viewed with suspicion became something he relied on. He began reaching out to Charity, Chomba and Eunice for support, including during weekends and school holidays, whenever he needed help. As his skills grew, so did his confidence. 

Technology transforms his work  

Today, technology is central to Sammy’s professional life. He became the first primary school teacher at his institution to conduct an end-of-term assessment through Google Classroom. 

His Chromebook now stores his lesson plans, class notes and Grade 4, 5 and 6 Science and Technology audio-visual resources. As Senior Teacher, he independently prepares duty rosters, panel schedules, quiz questions and official correspondence, including invitation letters for school trips such as a visit to Moi International Airport in Mombasa. 

Tasks that once required assistance can now be completed independently. When he encounters a difficult question, he uses Gemini on his Chromebook to find information and support his work. For Sammy, this represents more than learning how to use a computer. It has changed how he approaches his responsibilities. 

Taking digital skills beyond the classroom 

The impact of Sammy’s digital skills extends beyond his work at school. When the Chief of Tudor Location delegates him to represent her at public participation meetings, he independently prepares formal reports using his Chromebook. 

He also applies these skills in his community work. As a member of the registered Tudor Disabled and Parents self-help group, he uses technology to prepare proposals, write minutes and maintain cashbooks. Today, he only relies on cyber cafés when he needs to print documents. 

His journey from resisting technology to relying on it shows what can happen when teachers are given access to appropriate technology, training and support. The Chromebook has become more than a device. It has become a tool that enables Sammy to teach more independently, take on leadership responsibilities and contribute more effectively to his community. 

Information technology is no longer something Sammy sees as a threat to Braille. It is now an important part of his professional life and a complement to the skills and tools he already uses. 

“What began as deep hesitation has evolved into complete empowerment. Information technology is here to stay, and my Chromebook is now an irreplaceable part of how I teach, lead and serve.” 

Written by Mr. Sammy Kiranga Eshumira, Senior Teacher, The Salvation Army Likoni School for the Visually Impaired