This Digitruck, sponsored by Arrow Electronics, is operated by Computers for Schools Kenya (CFSK) and the Waste Electric and Electronic Equipment Centre (WEEE Centre). These two organisations collaborated to offer an inspiring educational programme in this Digitruck.

The Digitruck is able to reach even the most remote villages and areas, thanks to solar panels on the roof and the possibility to connect to the internet anywhere. This way, local community members have the possibility to be trained in digital skills. 

The programme established by CFSK and WEEE Centre focused on the one hand on training in digital literacy and on the other hand on creating awareness on electronic waste handling, storage and disposal. The programme and the Digitruck were very well received: 200 people participated in the classes.

More specifically there were five classes in a day, two hours each, from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday for four weeks in a row. Each trainee was required to have a maximum of 60 hours of training after which they could do an exam. Those who passed the exam received a certificate.

The first phase of classes took place in August and September. Of the 100 students that enrolled, 89 finished the course successfully. The second phase took place in September and October and hosted 100 students as well. This time, 90 people passed the examination and received a certificate.

Participants were between 16 and 70 years old, with the majority being above 30. Students were happy to improve their basic IT literacy and many showed interest in pursuing IT related courses and further education. Many of the female students saw positive growth in their businesses as they are now able to market their products on online platforms. Most of the trainees are also able to sign up for online jobs to earn a living.

For individual stories of participants:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hGJT8NWHtQ
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEmLITcvTcg
• http://weeecentre.blogspot.com/2018/09/first-time-in-class-at-48.html
• http://cfskinstitute.blogspot.com/2018/10/i-have-skills-to-run-my-business.html

After Mlolongo, the Digitruck travelled to Athi River with the same educational programme on digital skills and e-waste management. The first number of courses ended just last week. Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring Digitruck-tour through Kenya!