To advocate for information and information communication (ICT) integration in teaching and learning and to showcase emerging technologies and innovations, the Otjozondjupa Region hosted a Regional ICT Summit in Education and Exhibitions. 

Over 200 participants, including coaches, regional education directors and teachers, joined this year's summit. About 100 ICT industry players also joined the summit, exhibiting different ICT technologies. 

Regional Education Director in the Otjozondjupa, Gerhard Ndafenango, said this year's focus is on the future. 

"We want to plant a seed that would grow into a future focus. We want them to learn that when they grow up, they are growing up really sharp, smart and technologically serviced. We do not want to have in the future again questions about whether the teachers are fluent or proficient enough with technology."

While the government has been slow in providing ICT materials, Ndafenongo said those attending the summit have an opportunity to see and procure products there. 

The Otjozondjupa Governor, John ||Khamuseb, said what defines progress is not internet speed, the number of active devices, nor the size of the screens.

"It is how we use these tools to empower their minds and transform lives. In regions where distance and resources have long been barriers, ITC offers a language of hope; it speaks in the voice of connectivity of access and equity. It tells children that they can learn coaching just like a child in Otjiwarongo, in Windhoek, and in New York." 

He said there is a need to empower educators with dignified digital tools not just to teach but to inspire. 

The Chief Brand, Marketing, Communications and Sustainability Officer at MTC, Tim Ekandjo, said they have taken a deliberate approach to aid the education sector by ensuring that 4G-enabled network towers are erected in the vicinity of schools. 

"The fundamental enabler, which allows schools to have access to ICT services, because what good is it to have a computer at your school without access to the Internet? To the digital device, the first key that we need to do is to ensure that we have network infrastructure."

To address concerns over affordability, Ekandjo says they are exploring the possibility of designing less expensive internet connectivity packages specifically for schools. 

The Regional ICT Summit in Education and Exhibitions will end on Friday.