Airtel Malawi, UNICEF Announce Groundbreaking Project to Equip Schools with Cutting-Edge Technology
Each school will receive HD Smart TVs and tablets, complemented by free internet connectivity throughout the project's duration.
LILONGWE, MALAWI — Airtel Malawi Plc and UNICEF Malawi have unveiled a groundbreaking 5-Year School Connectivity Project, aimed at revolutionising education and digital literacy in Malawi, writes Winston Mwale.
According to a press statement issued on Tuesday, the initiative aligns with the Ministry of Education's Connect-a-School Program and is a significant step towards achieving the objectives outlined in the Malawi 2063 (MW2063) national development strategy.
The Connect-a-School Program, one of the Ministry's key priorities under Human Capital Development Enabler 5, seeks to equip public schools with state-of-the-art technology to empower students and educators with the tools they need to excel in the digital era.
To bring this vision to reality, Airtel Malawi and UNICEF have joined forces to provide nine selected schools with cutting-edge resources.
Each school will receive HD Smart TVs and tablets, complemented by free internet connectivity throughout the project's duration.
This integration of modern technology aims to facilitate interactive and engaging multimedia learning experiences, foster personalised education for students, and support teachers in delivering quality lessons.
The tablets provided to the schools will come preloaded with approved subject matter content, including the innovative virtual science lab application (MiLab App), developed by students from Mzuzu University, specifically for STEM subject experimentation and simulations.
This revolutionary educational tool will enable students to conduct practical experiments and gain practical insights into complex scientific concepts, enhancing their understanding and critical thinking abilities.
The first year of the project, initiated with K117 million in funding from Airtel Malawi, will equip the following nine schools with state-of-the-art equipment: Mangochi Secondary School in Mangochi, Linthipe Secondary School in Dedza, Chiwamba CDSS in Lilongwe, Nyungwe CDSS in Karonga, Kasakula CDSS in Ntchisi, Mzimba LEA in Mzimba, Chambe CDSS in Mulanje, Ligowe CDSS in Neno, and Masenjere Primary School in Nsanje.
Additionally, the Airtel School Connectivity Project has taken a major stride towards digital learning by zero-rating up to five online education sites. These sites, including https//notesmaster.com/; www.education.gov.mw; www.odl.poly.ac.mw; www.elearn.mzuni.ac.mw; and www.ecpd.education.gov.mw, will be accessible to students and educators with a dedicated Fair User Policy (FUP) limit of 100mb per user per day.
This move will ensure access to educational resources and opportunities for students across various regions of Malawi.
Charles Kamoto, Airtel Malawi Managing Director, emphasized the company's commitment to supporting the Ministry of Education's Connect-a-School Program.
He highlighted the importance of empowering the next generation with the necessary tools to thrive in the digital age, adding that the School Connectivity Project will play a pivotal role in creating an inclusive learning environment for all learners.
Shadrack Omol, UNICEF Malawi Country Representative, acknowledged the significance of digital literacy in enhancing learning outcomes for children.
He stressed the importance of increasing internet connectivity in schools, especially in rural areas, to provide essential learning services for every child.
Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima, MP, Minister of Education, praised the Airtel Malawi and UNICEF School Connectivity Project for their vital role in advancing education and digital skills in Malawi.
The Minister reiterated the Ministry's commitment to incorporating science, technology, and innovation in education service delivery to enhance students' overall learning experiences.
The School Connectivity Project marks a significant milestone in Malawi's education landscape, offering students access to cutting-edge technology and resources that will prepare them for a promising future.
By fostering digital literacy and providing innovative learning experiences, the initiative aspires to transform education and unlock the full potential of Malawi's next generation.