
By William Chitengu.
The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for an ICT laboratory at Matenje Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) under a project called Connect a School, an initiative aims to bridge the digital gap in schools and rural areas across Malawi.
Licensing Officer for MACRA, Ireen Chiwaula, said the ICT laboratory will help reduce the digital gap existing between individuals across the country.
“This project will not only provide access to easy information to the students and community but also employ people during the construction period.” Chiwaula said.
Director of Planning and Development for Salima District, Eric Kenamu, expressed excitement that Salima is one of the districts chosen to benefit from the project.
He further said the project will help in easy and fast dissemination of information for the students as well as for the community.

Guest of Honor at the ceremony, Enock Phale, advised community members and students to take good care of the ICT laboratory as the facility will improve access to information and enhance education standards in the area .
The construction of the Matenje ICT laboratory is expected to last 9 months. Upon completion, people will access the internet within a 100 meter radius.