Editor
The Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, has officially launched an ICT hub at San Giovanni School in Makiro, Kanungu District.
Funded by the American Tower Corporation (ATC), this initiative is aimed at enhancing computer skills among learners and the wider community in the district.
The digital center, which is projected to cost 101 million UGX, will continue to receive support from the Ministry of ICT to ensure its effective operation. The Ministry has also pledged additional resources for the installation of water tanks, modern latrines, and to cover the salaries of all trainers involved in running the facility.
During the launch, Dr. Baryomunsi vowed to partner with the school to restore its former academic excellence, noting that San Giovanni School was once highly regarded for its top-tier performance. He also reaffirmed his commitment to extending computer training and digital skills to all schools in the district, leveraging his role as the head of Uganda’s ICT Ministry.
Several headteachers expressed their appreciation to the minister for providing computers and other essential resources, such as textbooks and scholastic materials, to their schools.
Sheila Mugisha, an official from ATC, highlighted that the ICT hub at San Giovanni School is one of 42 digital hubs established across Uganda. Dorothy Kabagambe, the Executive Director of ATC Uganda, emphasized the importance of the hub, stressing that its services are open to all residents of Kanungu District, regardless of age, religion, political affiliation, or tribe, and are completely free of charge.
“The internet, training, and other services at San Giovanni School are free and accessible to anyone willing to participate,” Dorothy stated.
Denis Tukumushaba, the headteacher of San Giovanni School, commended the minister and the government for raising the school’s standards. He also appealed for assistance in completing the construction of a multi-purpose complex, which had been started by his parents. Still, he was abandoned due to the high cost, estimated at around 5 billion UGX. He reassured the officials, parents, and staff present of his commitment to working together to elevate the school to new heights.
In response, Dr. Baryomunsi promised to mobilize government and other resources to help complete the construction project.
Among the attendees were Assistant RDC Emmy Magezi, Kanungu Mayor Godfrey Karabenda, parents, and representatives from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).
