This archive report was first published on 7 July 2020.
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to affect schools globally, Kenya is embracing digital learning to bridge the gap in education. With over 80% of students affected, including 14.3 million in Kenya, the country's mobile internet penetration of 83% makes it an ideal hub for digital learning.
However, not all Kenyan students have access to digital learning due to income inequalities, limited or no access to electricity, and other social and cultural factors. Moreover, not all learning institutions are adequately prepared to integrate digital learning tools.
The government is taking steps to facilitate learning through technology, with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development broadcasting daily lessons via the State radio, which is more accessible in rural areas and informal urban settlements.
The global e-learning market is growing rapidly, with the industry expected to turn over more than $300 billion yearly by 2025, compared to $190 billion in 2018, according to research firm Global Market Insights.
Kenya needs to invest in ICT infrastructure, digital literacy, digital content, and upskilling of teachers and trainers to spur the growth of e-learning, leading to job creation and knowledge transfer.
E-learning will also help Kenya improve its global competitiveness by equipping learners with timely knowledge, tools, and resources needed to compete in a fast-changing technology-driven global economy.
With the country's high electrification rates and improving internet costs, Kenya is well-positioned to fully digitize its educational system, now and even after the Covid-19 crisis.
