In the heart of Wakiso District, where red dirt roads wind past banana groves and bustling trading centres, a quiet revolution is unfolding inside nursery classrooms. It’s not loud or flashy—but it’s powerful. Teachers are swapping chalk for tablets, and children are learning their ABCs through colorful, interactive games. This is the new face of early childhood education in Uganda, powered by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).
At the Redeemed Baby School, a group of wide-eyed four-year-old huddle around a tablet, giggling as animated animals help them count to ten. Their teacher, Miss Hana, beams with pride. “They’re learning faster than ever,” she says. “And they’re excited to come to school.”
ICTs aren’t just about flashy gadgets—they’re changing how children absorb knowledge. With apps that teach phonics through song, or math through puzzles, children are developing cognitive skills while having fun. “It’s play-based learning,” The children don’t even realize they’re learning.”
Studies show that when ICT is used effectively, it boosts literacy, numeracy, and even social skills. Children collaborate more, ask questions, and take initiative. In Wakiso, where class sizes can be large and resources limited, ICT offers a way to personalize learning—even in crowded classrooms. The impact of ICT in Uganda’s nursery schools goes beyond academics. It’s about preparing children for a digital future. It’s about giving them confidence, curiosity, and the tools to thrive in a changing world.
Sample ICT Tools for Kindergartens and Baby Schools
| Tool Type | Examples & Use Cases |
| Hardware | Tablets, projectors, digital cameras, smartboards |
| Educational Apps | Khan Academy Kids, ABC mouse, Endless Alphabet, ScratchJr |
| Multimedia Tools | YouTube Kids, Storybooks, digital songs and animations |
| Creative Tools | Book Creator, Toontastic, Paint 3D |
| Communication Platforms | Seesaw, ClassDojo, Brightwheel, WhatsApp |
| Assessment Tools | Simple quiz apps, interactive games with feedback loops |
While using ICTs when teaching babies, Kindly take note of the following,
Limit screen time: Use tech in short, purposeful bursts—20 minutes max per session.
Blend with physical play: Reinforce digital lessons with hands-on activities.
Train teachers: Equip them with basic ICT skills and child-centered tech strategies.
Ensure safety: Use age-appropriate content and monitor usage closely.
ICT in nursery schools isn’t just about screens—it’s about sparking curiosity, supporting early development, and making learning joyful and inclusive.
Leave a Reply