High-speed internet boosts digital learning in Dar schools

Dar es Salaam. In a significant step toward advancing digital education, Airtel Tanzania, in partnership with the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) and the government, has installed high-speed internet in 50 secondary schools in Ukonga District, Dar es Salaam.

This initiative, part of the Airtel SmartWASOMI project, aims to enhance e-learning opportunities and improve access to educational resources for students and teachers.

The installation is aligned with the broader SmartWASOMI plan, which seeks to provide internet access to 3,000 schools across Tanzania within five years. The initiative also complements the efforts of the Minister for Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Jerry Silaa, who is also the Member of Parliament for Ukonga Constituency, in promoting digital learning and addressing the shortage of educational materials.

Speaking at the handover ceremony held at Pugu Secondary School, Airtel Tanzania’s Public Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager, Jackson Mmbando, emphasized the transformative impact of the SmartWASOMI project.

“Airtel SmartWASOMI is a connectivity initiative designed to accelerate digital learning in Tanzania. Through our partnership with the government and Unicef, we aim to improve both teaching and learning environments. By installing high-speed internet in schools, we are supporting the government’s continued efforts to enhance digital education across the country,” said Mmbando.

He further noted that Airtel’s contribution extends beyond internet connectivity. The company provides free access to the Tanzania Institute of Education’s (TIE) digital library, allowing teachers and students using Airtel services to access educational materials without incurring additional costs.

“With the support of our partners, we are on track to equip over 3,000 schools with high-speed internet. This will enable teachers and students to access essential learning materials for free. By offering the TIE library at zero cost, we ensure that educational content remains accessible to all,” Mmbando explained.

Mussa Ali, Head of the Secondary Education Department in Ukonga, encouraged teachers to make full use of the project. He highlighted its potential to bridge gaps in educational resources and facilitate remote learning, particularly in subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics.

“With this connectivity, teachers can share resources and interact with students online. This will not only address the shortage of physical learning materials but also improve collaboration and engagement in schools,” Ali said.

The impact of the initiative was echoed by Asha Kinyogo, Headmistress of Buyuni Secondary School, who praised Airtel Tanzania for its investment in education.

“I applaud Airtel for this life-changing initiative that is reshaping education in Tanzania. The installation of high-speed internet in our school will enhance students’ learning experiences by providing easy access to online educational materials. We believe this project will have a lasting impact on our schools,” she noted.

The initiative underscores Airtel Tanzania’s commitment to providing equal access to quality digital learning and helping students reach their full potential. 

The project has already benefited 50 schools in Zanzibar, 42 in Kilimanjaro, 50 in Arusha, 15 in Nzega-Tabora, 20 in Dodoma, and 20 in Mbeya, with plans underway to connect even more government secondary schools across the country.