THE government has pledged to enhance infrastructure in public schools across the country to ensure they are equipped to fully embrace information and communication technology (ICT), with an emphasis on providing reliable electricity.

Prof. Kitila Mkumbo, Minister of State in the President’s Office, Planning and Investment made the remarks yesterday during the event to inaugurate the power project in Silaloda Ward, Mbulu District in Manyara Region.

The project, which is part of the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure in schools, aims to address the growing need for reliable electricity to support ICT in education.

“The government is focused on making sure that all public schools have the necessary infrastructure, including electricity, to effectively integrate ICT into their learning processes,” Prof. Mkumbo said.

The Silaloda power project, valued at 146.18m/-, its funds released in the 2023/2024 financial year. 

Prof. Mkumbo emphasised that the project is not only about improving the quality of education but also ensuring that schools are equipped to keep pace with technological advancements.

“The newly provided electricity will support the use of ICT in schools, including Silaloda Secondary School, where the power has already been distributed,” he said.

Bura Nyoka, acting manager of the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) in Mbulu, explained that the project, which began in February, was completed in June of last year. 

It involved the installation of electricity in schools and a health centre in the Silaloda area.

In addition to the electricity project, Prof. Mkumbo also launched the construction of two girls’ dormitories for Form Five and Six students, six new classrooms, and nine latrines at Kainam Secondary School, located in Mbulu. 

The project, valued at 428.9m/-, aims to increase space for the growing number of students, particularly those entering the higher grades.

“This project is critical for ensuring that more pupils have access to secondary education and are supported in their academic journeys,” said Prof. Mkumbo.

He also called on the community to use the government’s investments in education to break free from harmful practices, such as marrying off young girls, and instead prioritize the education of the next generation.

Kainam Secondary School headmaster, Emanuel Nikodemus, expressed his gratitude for the project, noting the significant impact it has had on the school. 

The number of Form Five and Six students has increased from 44 to 612, thanks to the expanded infrastructure.