A reliable internet connection is helping Al-Irshad Integrated Academy-Kunaso in Garissa Township work more efficiently. Teachers are accessing online learning materials more easily, the accounts office is managing financial records through digital systems that have replaced much of the paperwork, and administrators are completing government processes without leaving the compound.  

These improvements followed the school’s connection through the Mawingu Foundation, whose mission is to expand digital opportunities for underserved communities by providing affordable and reliable internet where it is needed most. 

Before the connection, the school relied on monthly mobile data bundles to access the internet. The recurring cost placed pressure on the school’s budget and limited the use of digital tools across different departments. 

“We used to spend a lot on monthly data bundles,” says School Manager Ibrahim Khosar. “Since Mawingu connected us, those costs have gone down, and we can now do much more with reliable internet.” 

The difference is especially noticeable in the accounts office, where Accounts Clerk Leyla Abdirizak manages the school’s financial records. 

School fee records, payment vouchers, receipts and balance sheets were previously prepared and stored manually, making the process time-consuming and record retrieval difficult. 

“Preparing financial records manually took a lot of time, and finding older records was never easy,” says Leyla. “Now we use a digital school fee tracking system that generates receipts and payment vouchers automatically. Retrieving information is much faster, and it has made my work easier and more organized.” 

Reliable connectivity is also supporting teaching and learning. Teachers now download educational resources to support classroom instruction, while ICT lessons are helping learners build practical digital skills that are becoming increasingly important in education and beyond. 

Administrative work has become more efficient as well. Staff can now access government platforms such as NEMIS directly from the school instead of travelling to a cybercafé, saving valuable time, and allowing them to focus on supporting learners. 

According to the school, these improvements have contributed to stronger financial management and better learning outcomes. 

Farouk Ramji, CEO Mawingu, says meaningful connectivity creates opportunities that extend beyond internet access. 

“Through the Mawingu Foundation, we are working to ensure that schools in underserved communities have the connectivity they need to strengthen learning, improve administration and prepare learners for a digital future. When schools are connected, they are better equipped to serve their learners and the communities around them,” says Ramji. 

As more schools embrace digital learning and technology-driven administration, access to reliable internet is becoming increasingly important. The Mawingu Foundation remains committed to expanding connectivity to underserved communities, helping schools build stronger learning environments, modernize their operations and equip the next generation with the skills they need to thrive in a connected world. 
 
To learn more about Mawingu Foundation, you can contact Charles Watiri on charles.watiri@mawingu.co or visit Mawingu Foundation