The Airtel Africa Foundation, in collaboration with UNICEF, has successfully connected 1,668 schools to digital learning platforms in Nigeria, benefiting 977,670 students and 22,417 teachers. This initiative represents a significant advancement in the partnership aimed at enhancing access to digital education and improving school connectivity nationwide.
During a recent visit to educational institutions and youth programs in Lagos, representatives from both organizations witnessed students engaging with technology to develop vital digital skills and explore artificial intelligence (AI). The visit included interactions with secondary school girls and students at a technical college who are preparing for future careers through technology-focused learning.
Airtel Africa Foundation is also focused on reducing the financial barriers associated with accessing online educational resources. The foundation offers zero-rated access to platforms like the Nigeria Learning Passport and YOMA, as well as digital platforms managed by Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education, allowing users to utilize these services without incurring data charges.
The Nigeria Learning Passport has reached 2.5 million students, while YOMA has connected one million users to various learning and development opportunities, as reported by the foundation. Additionally, the partnership enables schools to submit information through the Digital National Education Management Information System at no cost, improving education planning and management by facilitating the collection of school-related data.
The foundation emphasized that its collaboration with UNICEF and the Federal Government of Nigeria is part of ongoing efforts to broaden access to quality education and promote digital inclusion. By integrating connectivity with educational platforms and digital skills development, the initiative aims to empower more young people to access learning resources and participate fully in the digital economy.
While acknowledging the progress made, the organizations also recognized that more work is needed to extend these benefits further. The achievements thus far illustrate the importance of partnerships in advancing digital learning opportunities across Nigeria.
