Telecommunications giant Safaricom, through the M-Pesa Foundation, has begun constructing a state-of-the-art ICT Hub at Maseno University in a Sh120 million partnership aimed at deepening digital learning, innovation, and community empowerment.
The facility dubbed the M-Pesa Foundation Maseno University ICT Hub is expected to serve as a centre of excellence for technology-driven education and research while also providing ICT training to surrounding communities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
Speaking during the launch at Maseno University, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Julius Nyabundi, in a speech read on his behalf by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Dr. Stephen Ogendo, described the project as a milestone in the university’s long-standing commitment to digital literacy.
“The Hub is far more than just a building; it is a strategic investment in human capital and a direct extension of our commitment to digital literacy,” said Prof. Nyabundi.
“For over a decade, dating back to 2013, we have made IT a compulsory and integral component of all undergraduate programmes. This new hub will elevate this commitment from a curriculum requirement to a dynamic, real-world ecosystem,” he added.
The facility will offer training in basic computer packages, digital entrepreneurship for small businesses, and other IT-based skills critical for the modern economy.
Prof. Nyabundi added that it will also support research, innovation, and community development, the three pillars of Maseno University’s mandate.
On his part, Dr Ogendo noted that the collaboration would enhance the university’s teaching capacity and expand access to digital resources beyond the student community.
“The Hub will not only serve our students but will also be open to the public for formal and informal IT learning,” he said.
The facility would be ready and fully operational by January 2026 to plug into the university’s existing IT programmes.
M-Pesa Foundation Trustee and Senior Counsel John Ohaga said the project underscores Safaricom’s vision of transforming communities through technology.
“The M-Pesa Foundation operates on three primary pillars: education, health, and environment, with this project falling squarely under education,” said Ohaga.
“Because Safaricom is a technology-led company, technology is at the heart of how we deliver education initiatives. The future is digital, and this Hub will help prepare young people for it,” he added.
Ohaga revealed that the Foundation was fully funding the project, covering all infrastructure and equipment costs, and has committed Sh7 billion in 2026-2027 financial year towards furthering its national education, health, and environmental programmes.
Dr. Calvins Otieno, Dean of the School of Computing and Informatics, said the project will greatly enhance digital training capacity.
“This partnership will help us produce graduates who are not only marketable but ready to provide technology-based solutions for Kenya’s growing economy,” he said.
By Chris Mahandara
