Digital learning is gaining ground across Africa as schools look for practical ways to improve teaching, reduce technology costs and prepare students for a more connected world. In Kenya, one company is helping drive that shift through a growing partnership with Google.

Zila Tech, a Digicloud Africa and Google partner, is expanding the use of Google Workspace for Education and Chromebooks in schools across the country. The initiative is giving educators access to cloud-based learning tools, artificial intelligence features and simplified device management.

The move comes as many schools seek alternatives to traditional IT systems that often require costly infrastructure, multiple software licenses and dedicated support teams. By adopting Google’s education ecosystem, schools can manage learning resources from a single platform while improving collaboration between teachers and students.

Interest in the program has increased steadily over the past two years, according to Phelomena Siokan, Customer Success Engineer at Zila Tech. She said schools are increasingly turning to Google Workspace for Education and Chromebooks because they offer a simpler and more cost-effective way to support digital learning.

Schools embrace Google’s education ecosystem

Many Kenyan schools have traditionally relied on Windows devices, either supplied by schools or brought in by students. While effective, these environments often require significant investment in servers, security systems and IT support.

Siokan said schools that adopt Google Workspace for Education typically begin with the free Education Fundamentals edition, which includes teaching and collaboration tools as well as AI-powered features such as Gemini and NotebookLM.

As usage grows, many schools upgrade to paid versions that offer stronger security, advanced analytics and expanded administrative controls.

Chromebooks gain popularity in classrooms

Chromebooks have become an increasingly attractive option for schools because they are designed to work seamlessly with Google Workspace for Education. The devices start quickly, offer long battery life and receive automatic updates that can extend support for up to 10 years after manufacture.

To make adoption easier, Zila Tech has partnered with device manufacturers and financial institutions to improve affordability. The company’s “One Child One Chromebook” initiative, launched last year, has also encouraged more schools to explore large-scale deployments.

AI tools help teachers and reduce IT costs

Teachers are finding new ways to manage classrooms through Google’s education platform. Features such as Class Tools allow educators to share resources, monitor student progress and guide lessons in real time while helping students stay focused during class.

The platform’s AI capabilities are also drawing attention. Through Gemini Gems, teachers can create customized AI assistants tailored to specific subjects and learning objectives.

At the same time, centralized management through the Google Admin Console allows schools to oversee devices, enforce policies and manage updates from a single location, reducing both workload and operating costs.

Zila Tech also provides training, technical support and managed services for schools. The company plans to build on its success in Kenya as it works to expand Chromebook and Google Education adoption across other African markets.