Airtel Africa,
in partnership with UNICEF, is making significant strides in bridging the
digital divide and transforming education across sub-Saharan Africa. Through
its flagship five-year initiative, the telecommunications giant has connected
over 1,200 schools to the internet, providing more than 1 million learners with
access to quality digital education resources. Additionally, the program has
trained over 17,000 teachers on how to effectively utilize these tools,
empowering them to deliver impactful lessons in the digital age.
The
partnership, which underscores Airtel Africa’s commitment to education and
digital inclusion, is creating opportunities for children in underserved
communities to access world-class learning resources and develop the skills
needed to thrive in the 21st century.
To witness the
transformative impact of the initiative firsthand, Airtel Africa Group CEO
Sunil Taldar has visited St. Agnes Nursery and Primary School in Lagos,
Nigeria. Accompanied by Airtel Nigeria CEO Dinesh Balsingh, representatives
from UNICEF, the Lagos State Commissioner for Education, and officials from the
Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, Mr. Taldar observed teachers and
students engaging with the Nigeria Learning Passport (NLP), one of the
educational platforms made accessible through the program.
“What I
witnessed today at St. Agnes is truly remarkable,” said Mr. Taldar. “Seeing the enthusiasm of the students and the
dedication of the teachers as they interacted with the Nigeria Learning
Passport was inspiring. This partnership is not just about connecting schools
to the internet; it’s about unlocking the potential of millions of children and
equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.”
The Airtel
Africa-UNICEF partnership is designed to address the challenges of access to
quality education in sub-Saharan Africa, where many schools lack the resources
and infrastructure needed to provide effective learning environments. By
connecting schools to the internet and providing digital education platforms
like the Nigeria Learning Passport, the initiative is enabling students to
access a wealth of educational content, including interactive lessons, videos,
and quizzes.
The program
also focuses on empowering teachers by providing them with the training and
resources they need to integrate digital tools into their teaching practices.
Over 17,000 teachers have been trained so far, equipping them with the skills
to deliver engaging and effective lessons that enhance learning outcomes.
By: Kanto Okanta
