Article By Dalmas Otieno, Teacher at Saada Junior School
A Digital Shift in the Desert
In the arid but determined land of Wajir, a quiet revolution is taking place in classrooms at Saada Junior School. Thanks to bold leadership, teamwork, and the integration of digital tools, the school is redefining how teaching and learning is delivered under Kenya’s Competency-Based Education (CBE) framework.
In a recent session, a teacher passionately guided learners through the CBE career pathways using a projector and digital slides. From Arts and Sports Science, to Social Sciences, and the STEM pathway (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)-learners at Saada are now being exposed to career options with visual clarity and real-world relevance.
The Power of Technology in Learning
This transformation has been made possible through the use of digital learning kits-portable projectors, tablets, and carefully curated educational content that align with the CBE pathways.
The shift from textbooks alone to multimedia content has made lessons more engaging and learner-friendly. Learners can now grasp abstract concepts more easily through images, animations, and guided digital explanations. Girls and boys alike are benefiting from this inclusive approach, with participation rising across all groups.
Celebrating Leadership and Teamwork
At the heart of this initiative is Mr. Dalmas Otieno Adongo, the team leader of the Wajir Smart Learning team. His relentless dedication, collaborative leadership, and passion for learner empowerment have played a pivotal role in making this transformation possible. Working hand in hand with other committed team members, Mr. Adongo has coordinated outreach, trained facilitators, and ensured smooth deployment of tech tools in classrooms.
Their efforts, in collaboration with partners such as wiLearn 4 Life and AHAINNOVATE, have brought real change-giving Saada Junior School a head start in preparing learners for life beyond the classroom.
A Brighter Future for Every Learner
Through the use of technology, Saada Junior School is not only delivering lessons-it is cultivating future-ready learners equipped with digital literacy, critical thinking skills, and self-confidence. The girls dressed in bright red hijabs and the boys in school uniform reflect a diverse and motivated student body that is eager to learn, ask questions, and dream bigger.
The learners’ voices say it all:
“Seeing our future careers on the screen made us think differently. I now know I want to explore Science and Technology,” shared one Grade 7 learner.
Conclusion: A Model of Hope and Innovation
Despite limited resources and harsh conditions, Saada Junior School proves that transformation is possible when vision meets collaboration. With continued support and community involvement, more schools in Wajir and beyond can follow this path.
As Mr. Adongo stated during the session:
“We are not just delivering content-we are opening minds, shaping values, and preparing learners to thrive in the modern world.”
#CBEPathways | #SaadaSmartLearning | #WajirDigitalEducation | #TechForLearning
