Nairobi, Kenya – The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of education technology (EdTech) in Kenya, as schools struggled to continue teaching during prolonged closures. With millions of students confined to their homes, the government, private sector, and educational platforms collaborated to deliver learning through digital and broadcast media. Platforms such as the Kenya Education Cloud, Eneza Education, e-Limu, and Tusome have become vital tools for keeping students engaged, while radio and television remain key channels for rural learners with limited internet access.
The shift to remote learning highlighted stark inequalities in access to education across the country. Less than one in ten pupils can access digital learning devices, and only 18% of students have internet connectivity, with rural areas disproportionately affected. Despite government initiatives like making textbooks available online and deploying Google Loon balloons for 4G coverage, many households lack electricity or suitable learning spaces. Teachers and students also face challenges adapting to new technologies, and learners with disabilities remain largely excluded from digital education strategies.
Stakeholders have called for a more inclusive approach to EdTech, combining multiple learning channels and stronger public-private partnerships to ensure equitable access. Internet providers and mobile device manufacturers could be incentivized to support educational initiatives, while teachers and parents require ongoing training to effectively use digital tools. Experts emphasize that technology cannot replace the social and developmental benefits of traditional schooling, including sports, art, and peer interaction. Moving forward, Kenya aims to use these innovations not just as stop-gap measures but as long-term solutions to strengthen the education system and reduce disparities.