Ruto Launches Live Digital Classrooms Connecting Schools Across Kenya

Schools in several Kenyan counties are being linked through interactive smartboards in a government programme designed to transform classroom learning. The technology allows teachers and learners in different locations to communicate and participate in lessons together without leaving their schools.

President William Ruto led a live National Digital Class Experience at Kiminini Junior Secondary School in Trans Nzoia County on Wednesday, October 14. The demonstration brought together learners and education officials from multiple institutions to showcase how digital connectivity can support collaborative learning.

The programme falls under the Kenya Digital Economy Acceleration Project (KDEAP), which is being implemented through the government's Digital Skills and Markets initiative with support from the World Bank. It forms part of broader efforts to expand digital access and improve technology use in the education sector.

Information, Communication and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo joined the session from St Georges Junior Secondary School in Ruiru, Kiambu County. Gender Cabinet Secretary Hannah Cheptumo and Musa Sirma participated from Kabimoi Junior Secondary School in Baringo, while ICT Authority Board Chairperson Lily Ngok joined learners at Kericho Township Junior Secondary School.

Smartboards Bring Classrooms Together

The interactive boards and live internet connections allow participating schools to share learning activities and communicate across county boundaries. The arrangement could reduce the need for learners and teachers to travel for joint sessions while creating opportunities to exchange ideas and educational experiences.

The classroom demonstration comes as the government pursues additional digital education projects, including plans to integrate artificial intelligence into learning. A notice issued on October 13 invited eligible consulting firms to express interest in work requiring experience in developing AI curricula.

The AI curriculum assignment is separate from the live smartboard sessions, although both initiatives fall within the wider digital skills agenda. The government is also preparing more digital learning materials for junior secondary school learners.

According to the information provided by the ministry, digital content for Grades 7 and 8 is ready, while materials for Grade 9 are being developed. Procurement for the project's second phase has also begun, with the government targeting approximately 21,000 schools by April 2027.