Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister for Information, Communication Technology, and National Guidance, has officially launched a state-of-the-art Digital Community Centre at San Giovanni School in Makiro, Kanungu District.
The facility, valued in the millions, is designed to tackle computer illiteracy among both students and the surrounding community.
The centre was established with the support of the American Tower Corporation (ATC), a leading provider of wireless and broadcast infrastructure in Uganda. The inauguration took place on Friday as part of broader efforts to promote digital literacy in rural regions.
Sheilah Mugisha, ATC Uganda’s Head of Asset Management, underscored the Centre's impact, noting that it would significantly improve the quality of life in the area. “The Centre will enhance access to education, healthcare, and financial services,” Mugisha stated.
Dorothy Kabagambe Ssemanda, ATC Uganda’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the importance of addressing the digital divide faced by learners in rural communities like Kanungu.
She explained that the ICT hub, equipped with 20 computers and free internet access, is not only available to students but also open to the wider community for ICT skills development and research purposes.
In addition, ATC Uganda has committed to providing free computer training to the school's teachers, covering both basic and advanced skills, including cybersecurity.
San Giovanni School head teacher Denis Tukamushaba expressed heartfelt appreciation for the Centre, which he believes will transform the school. He highlighted the institution's challenges, particularly the reliance on parental contributions since its founding in 1984, due to limited government support.
“The school has faced numerous challenges, especially the lack of government funding, relying mainly on contributions from parents,” Tukamushaba noted.
In response, Dr Baryomunsi urged students to make full use of the new ICT hub to enhance their academic performance. He also addressed Tukamushaba’s concerns, asserting that the government has not neglected the school.
“Some teachers are on the government payroll, and we have consistently provided textbooks to the school,” the Minister clarified.