Telecoms and Banks Partner to Connect 2,500 Schools to Internet
Telecommunications companies and financial institutions have pledged support to the Ministry of Education in expanding internet connectivity to schools across Zambia, in a move aimed at strengthening digital learning and modernising education delivery.
The commitment was made during a partners’ engagement meeting on school connectivity held at the Ministry of Education Headquarters in Lusaka, where stakeholders underscored the importance of digital access in improving teaching methods and preparing learners for a technology-driven future.
Representatives from Zamtel, Airtel Zambia, MTN Zambia, Absa Bank, First National Bank, Stanbic Bank, Standard Chartered Bank and Zanaco attended the meeting, alongside officials from the Presidential Delivery Unit, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and the Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN).
Speaking at the meeting, Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Administration, Ms Noriana Muneku, expressed gratitude to the partners, highlighting the transformative role of collaboration in expanding access to education.
“The power of collaboration has seen classrooms that once had limited resources now introducing learners to digital tools. Teachers are expanding their methods. Learners are gaining access to knowledge that reaches far beyond their immediate environment,” Ms Muneku said.
She noted that education remains central to national development, adding that the introduction of a revised curriculum has prioritised digital literacy and computer science as key competencies for learners.
Ms Muneku further reaffirmed government’s target of connecting an additional 2,500 schools to reliable internet services by the end of 2026.
Smart Zambia Institute Director of Infrastructure Management, Mr Paison Chikoye, said the institution was committed to ensuring the successful implementation of government’s connectivity agenda.
Meanwhile, Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) Director of Universal Access and Service, Mr Collins Chomba, stressed the importance of inclusive access, stating that no child should be left behind in the digital era.
