By Ayomide Otitoju
Airtel Africa, a leading telecommunications and mobile money services provider, has announced significant milestones in its five-year partnership with UNICEF, aimed at revolutionizing education across the continent.
Since its launch in 2021, the initiative has connected over 1,500 schools to the internet, trained 17,000 teachers, and reached nearly one million learners across 13 African countries with quality digital education resources. The program, part of Airtel Africa’s $57 million commitment, seeks to bridge the digital divide for vulnerable children in collaboration with African governments.
Driving Digital Inclusion
Airtel Africa CEO, Sunil Taldar, speaking on World Children’s Day, highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative.
“Our mission is to transform lives, and through our collaboration with UNICEF, we are witnessing the profound impact that connectivity and digital resources can have on Africa’s children and teachers,” Taldar said.
“For every school connected and every teacher trained, we take tangible steps toward bridging the digital divide and advancing educational equality. This partnership embodies our relentless pursuit of a better future for African children, especially those in underserved and remote regions,” he added.
Key Achievements
The partnership focuses on enhancing access to digital learning resources, zero-rated educational platforms, and teacher training programs to support equitable education opportunities.
Since its inception, the initiative has:
Connected 1,500 schools to the internet.
Trained 17,000 teachers on using digital tools.
Provided nearly one million learners with access to quality digital education resources.
These efforts span 13 African countries, including Chad, Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
A Shared Vision for Education
The partnership underscores Airtel Africa’s commitment to equipping children with the tools and skills needed to thrive in a technology-driven world. According to Taldar, this collaboration reflects the company’s broader mission to empower communities and ensure digital inclusion for future generations.
The initiative, aligned with World Children’s Day, reaffirms the commitment of Airtel Africa and UNICEF to secure and improve the future of African children through innovative and inclusive education solutions.
