Airtel Africa has announced plans to connect 5,000 schools across its African operations to free internet access by 2027 through the Airtel Africa Foundation in partnership with UNICEF, expanding one of the continent’s largest digital education initiatives.
The programme builds on a US$57 million partnership launched in 2021 that has already connected 3,296 schools, providing internet access to more than two million students and approximately 40,000 teachers across 13 African countries. In addition, 64 digital learning platforms have been zero-rated, allowing more than 11 million users to access educational content without data charges.
The announcement was made by Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar during a visit to St. Monica Girls’ School in Lusaka, Zambia, one of the first schools connected under the initiative. The programme combines internet connectivity, teacher training and access to digital learning platforms to improve educational outcomes, particularly in underserved and remote communities.
UNICEF and education officials in Zambia said the initiative is helping bridge the digital divide by enabling learners to access educational content both in school and at home, while supporting teachers with the digital skills needed to deliver technology-enabled learning.
As the programme expands towards its 5,000-school target, Airtel Africa and UNICEF aim to strengthen digital inclusion, improve access to quality education and equip millions of young Africans with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
