In Africa’s race toward a digital future, Airtel Africa wants to make sure no one gets left behind. On Tuesday in Lagos, the company’s philanthropic arm, Airtel Africa Foundation, unveiled an ambitious plan: by 2026, it will train 26,000 Nigerian youth, connect 300 schools to the internet, and provide digital learning resources that could have a lasting impact beyond the classroom.
Dinesh Balsingh, CEO of Airtel Nigeria, emphasised that this initiative is more than just a corporate social responsibility (CSR) effort. “For over a decade, Airtel has connected millions of Africans to voice and data,” he said. “The Foundation brings our work in education, healthcare, financial inclusion, and digital skills under one sharper platform, with greater ambition.”
That ambition is significant. In Nigeria, Airtel’s largest market, the plan includes offering scholarships to 100 students, long-term support for 10 schools, and the establishment of smart classrooms and IT labs. The goal goes beyond just connectivity; it is about preparing young Africans to thrive in the digital economy, where skills like coding, critical thinking, and digital literacy are essential for success.
A Pan-African Vision
Airtel Africa Foundation is leading an ambitious plan that not only focuses on Nigeria but also invests in 13 other markets.
- In Uganda, the foundation aims to train 50,000 youths, connect 415 schools, and provide tech training for 100 women.
- Kenya’s initiative includes training 5,000 youths, connecting 100 schools, and establishing 50 new digital communities.
- In Tanzania, the goal is to connect 1,000 schools.
- The Democratic Republic of Congo plans to adopt 25 schools and award 50 scholarships.
Overall, the foundation hopes to positively impact 10 million lives by 2030, with a focus on education and digital empowerment as the primary drivers of this initiative. Sunil Taldar, Airtel Africa’s Group CEO, summed it up: “Our purpose goes beyond connecting people. We aim to be a genuine partner in Africa’s progress.”
Beyond Devices: Building Ecosystems
The Foundation’s partnership with UNICEF has already connected 1,200 schools, trained 17,000 teachers, and provided digital resources to over one million students. The next phase focuses not just on installing Wi-Fi, but also on creating ecosystems where teachers feel confident, students are well-equipped, and schools function as digital hubs for their communities.
Key initiatives include zero-rating learning platforms, establishing IT labs, and developing technology hubs. In a continent where affordability and access are significant barriers, these efforts could make a substantial difference, particularly in rural areas where students often travel miles just to find a signal.
The Long Game
Segun Ogunsanya, chairman of Airtel Africa Foundation, framed the challenge as one of legacy: “The real question is: what legacy will we leave? Legacy is measured by the lives we touch and the opportunities we create.”
This legacy depends heavily on follow-through. Collaborations with governments, UNICEF, and local organisations will be crucial in ensuring that the statistics, 26,000 youths and 300 schools, don’t just remain in glossy reports but instead lead to genuine transformation.
If Airtel Africa can fulfil these commitments, the impact will extend beyond corporate philanthropy. It could enable a whole generation of African students to enter adulthood by 2030 not as digital outsiders, but as active participants and creators in the global economy.
