Epson has initiated a significant school donation program, delivering essential educational equipment to 80 schools in Kenya. This endeavor, forming a part of a larger initiative, commits to distributing over 800 EcoTank printers and interactive classroom kits across various schools and hospitals in the Middle East and Africa [MEA] region.
Epson has partnered with Liquid Intelligent Technologies [Liquid], who will provide last mile support that will see schools receive printers, projectors and visualisers estimated at a cost KES 4.9 million. Liquid is already working on a programme with UNICEF to connect schools to the internet across the country.
Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu praised the initiative during its launch, highlighting its alignment with the Competency Based Curriculum [CBC] in Kenya, which emphasizes practical learning experiences, including printing. The technology, comprising printers, projectors, and visualisers, is particularly beneficial in large, underprivileged classrooms.
“Education is the cornerstone of development, and access to quality resources plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our children. With the introduction of the various technologies to schools across Kenya, we are not only providing tools for learning but also opening up new avenues for digital literacy. creativity, exploration, and knowledge dissemination. The EcoTank printer, with its innovative and sustainable design, is more than just a piece of technology, it is a symbol of progress and a testament to Epson’s dedication to environmental responsibility”, said Dr. Elyas Abdi, Director General of Basic Education.
“This initiative and the role technology plays in making educational materials more accessible to all, have an enormous impact. Epson is dedicated to nurturing future talent and ensuring that quality education reaches children, regardless of their geographical or socio-economic background. The EcoTank printers, in addition to being energy-efficient, the EcoTanks come with enough ink to last up to three years. This not only makes them a long-lasting, sustainable solution for schools.”, Says Epson’s Regional Head for East and West Africa, Mukesh Bector.
Liquid Intelligent Technologies’ Group Chief Technology and Innovation Officer Ben Roberts noted that this partnership represents a significant step in enhancing educational opportunities through technology.
“Through this collaboration, the schools are benefiting from the connectivity provided by Liquid, and the additional ICT tools such as printers, projectors and visualisers, are enhancing the impact of the near infinite access to information and resources that being connected delivers. Our last mile distribution of internet, connecting communities of ICT teachers, will complement our partnership with Epson in the last mile distribution and support of printers”, says Roberts.
Adil El Youssefi, CEO of Liquid Intelligent Technologies: Rest of Africa, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the partnership’s aim to make education more accessible and empower Kenya’s youth. The initiative aligns with the company’s vision for a digitally connected Africa.
The program also received commendation from Rosemary Bosibori Onyancha, African Union Best Teacher in 2023 and a teacher at Moi Forces Academy Lanet. She stressed the program’s potential in advancing educational and career opportunities, despite challenges in integrating technology into classrooms.
Epson’s shift from laser to inkjet technology globally reflects a commitment to reducing energy and ink costs. Inkjet, a ‘cold’ technology, is more energy-efficient than laser printing, which requires heat. The compact and lightweight design of Epson’s products further contributes to resource conservation in production and shipping, with high-yield ink cartridges minimizing consumable waste and maintenance needs.
