The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) is taking bold steps to transform the country’s education system and empower youth with its flagship “Connect-A-School” (CAS) initiative. The project is designed to close the digital divide by expanding ICT access across schools and communities.

Speaking on the initiative, MACRA Director General Daud Suleman highlighted the importance of inclusivity in Malawi’s digital economy:

“We cannot speak of building a robust digital ecosystem without ensuring all young people have access to the tools and skills they need to thrive.”

Connect-A-School Pilot Phase: Achievements So Far

Over the past three years, the pilot phase of CAS has made significant progress:

• 75 ICT labs established nationwide.
• More than 635,000 students and 1.25 million community members have benefited.
• Equal access for learners in rural and urban areas, ensuring no child is left behind.

Suleman emphasized the project’s impact:

“This means John from TA Chakuzamtu in Namitete and Mary from Wenya in Chitipa will have the same digital opportunities as Martha from Blantyre. No child will be left behind.”

Economic Impact of CAS

Beyond education, CAS has provided a boost to Malawi’s economy by engaging local suppliers and labor:

• 525 artisans and 1,350 casual workers employed.
• 820+ small enterprises supported.
• K15.3 billion in local business awarded, including K5 billion in labor costs.

This has stimulated local economies while promoting digital inclusion across the country.

Phase 2: Expanding ICT Access Nationwide

The second phase of the initiative is already underway, with groundbreaking ceremonies at 120 new sites nationwide. The expansion aims to further increase ICT access for learners while strengthening Malawi’s digital economy.

MACRA has stressed that while infrastructure is critical, digital skills training and curriculum alignment with market needs are equally essential. Partnerships with the Ministry of Education, TEVETA, and other stakeholders are helping ensure knowledge transfer alongside infrastructure development.

Building Malawi’s Digital Future

Through Connect-A-School, MACRA is not only providing ICT labs but also shaping the future of education and digital inclusion in Malawi. The initiative is empowering youth, fostering economic growth, and ensuring that no learner, whether from rural or urban areas, is left behind in the country’s digital transformation journey.