ICT Hub Launch and Environmental Action at St. Andrew’s Mutus Primary and Junior Secondary School
Youth Future Lab conducted an impactful ICT Hub Launch at St. Andrew’s Mutus Primary and Junior Secondary School. This event marked a significant milestone in the journey toward enhancing digital literacy in under-resourced schools. The initiative aimed to equip both learners and teachers with essential digital skills while fostering environmental stewardship through tree planting activities. This dual approach aligns with Youth Future Lab’s mission to empower communities through education and climate action.

ICT Hub Launch and Digital Literacy Training
The core highlight of the event was the official launch of the ICT Hub at St. Andrew’s Mutus School. Learners were provided with computers, marking the beginning of their digital education journey. The Youth Future Lab team, together with the Kutambua.com trainers, offered hands-on training to the students on how to operate the computers and access the e-learning platform Kutambua.com. This platform, developed by Youth Future Lab, offers a variety of courses aligned with the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), designed to foster critical thinking and practical skills among learners.

The teachers at St. Andrew’s Mutus School also participated in the training sessions. They were guided on how to integrate digital tools into their teaching methodologies to improve learning outcomes. By familiarizing themselves with the Kutambua platform, the teachers were empowered to support their students in navigating the available courses. This step ensured that both educators and learners are equipped to adapt to the evolving digital landscape, bridging the digital divide in education.

Kutambua Platform Training
The training on the Kutambua.com platform was a vital component of the ICT Hub Launch. The Kutambua team demonstrated how users could explore a wide range of courses, including CBC-related subjects, journalism, ICT skills, and driving theory. The platform’s interactive courses are designed to help students achieve competency and prepare them for the demands of the modern world. Both students and teachers were given practical guidance on how to create accounts, navigate the platform, and access learning materials tailored to their needs.

Through this training, Youth Future Lab emphasized the importance of digital literacy in fostering lifelong learning. The learners were excited to explore new knowledge areas, while the teachers expressed appreciation for the platform’s potential to enhance their teaching capabilities. This initiative demonstrated the transformative power of technology in education and highlighted the critical role of digital tools in shaping a more inclusive and informed society.

Environmental Action: Avocado Seedling Planting
Following the ICT training sessions, Youth Future Lab, alongside the learners and teachers, engaged in a meaningful environmental action activity. Over 200 avocado seedlings were planted in the school’s field as part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to combating climate change. This tree-planting activity not only promoted environmental conservation but also provided a hands-on learning experience for students about the importance of sustainable practices.

The Youth Future Lab team guided participants on best practices for planting and caring for the seedlings to ensure their long-term survival. The avocado trees, once mature, will contribute to the local ecosystem by improving air quality, providing shade, and potentially enhancing food security for the school community. This activity served as a reminder of the interconnectedness of education and environmental responsibility, reinforcing Youth Future Lab’s holistic approach to community development.

Impact and Conclusion
The ICT Hub Launch and environmental action at St. Andrew’s Mutus Primary and Junior Secondary School left a lasting impact on the school community. Learners and teachers gained valuable digital skills that will help them thrive in an increasingly digital world, while the tree-planting activity fostered a sense of responsibility toward environmental conservation. By combining digital literacy initiatives with climate action, Youth Future Lab demonstrated its commitment to nurturing well-rounded, future-ready individuals.

This event is a testament to Youth Future Lab’s mission to create sustainable, empowered communities through education and environmental stewardship. As the organization continues to expand its reach, initiatives like these will play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and promoting a greener, more resilient future for generations to come.