education 16 July 2026 Nile Post

Airtel Africa Expands Free School Internet Initiative to 5,000 Schools by 2027

Airtel Africa, in partnership with UNICEF, aims to provide free internet access to 5,000 schools across 14 African countries by 2027. This initiative, part of a larger US$57 million digital education program, has already connected over 3,000 schools and reached millions of learners. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/356696/airtel-africa-targets-5000-schools-for-free-internet-connectivity-by-2027

Airtel Africa is stepping up its commitment to digital education, setting an ambitious target to bring free internet connectivity to 5,000 schools across its operating markets by 2027. This initiative is being driven by the Airtel Africa Foundation in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

The program is a significant component of a broader US$57 million partnership established in 2021, designed to enhance digital learning opportunities throughout the continent. To date, the initiative has successfully connected 3,296 schools, benefiting more than two million students and around 40,000 teachers. Additionally, 64 digital learning platforms have been made zero-rated, allowing over 11 million users to access educational materials without incurring data costs.

Sunil Taldar, CEO of Airtel Africa, highlighted the transformative impact of the program during a visit to St. Monica’s Girls’ School in Zambia, one of the schools already part of the initiative. He emphasized that the partnership, working alongside governments, is expanding access to vital digital learning resources and fostering the development of digital literacy skills essential for the modern world.

“Our goal is to continue deepening meaningful connectivity in schools by providing free internet access, zero-rated learning platforms and teacher training across the continent,” Taldar stated. School leaders and education officials have expressed strong support, noting the significant improvement in learning outcomes and the crucial role of such collaborations in bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to quality education.

The School Connection Programme is currently active in 13 African nations, including Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, and Zambia, with plans to reach the target of 5,000 schools within the next few years.