How tech is transforming the learning experience
Yet today, around 97.5 million African children still don’t attend school. This figure is much higher than in any other region in the world.
To tackle this, we’re using digital education technologies to give learners access to a quality education.
But there are still big challenges to navigate, such as electricity outages, gender barriers and lack of access to devices and the internet.
One way to address these challenges is through our
When studying technology and information systems at university, Loice’s family were worried it would be too difficult for her.
Code Like a Girl trainer Loice, believes the problem is that women are actively discouraged from pursuing careers in tech.
Reaching more than 5,000 girls in 23 markets, Code Like a Girl is improving the number of girls studying and working in tech.
There is still a long way to go though.
Former student, Otilia, told us that it is still a male-dominated space and that many young people don't have access to computers and can’t afford data.
This is where another initiative
can make a big difference.
Working with other partners, a converted shipping container is used to provide digital skills training to people in rural Kenya.
Running off of solar power, learners can access devices and get basic tech skills.
Including how to draft business documents, search for jobs online, and start an online business.
Since the rollout, over 2,300 students have received more than 80,000 hours of training.
“This was the first time I was taught how to use a computer and it’s had a real impact on me. Now things are much easier and I’m planning to set up my own business using technology”
– Carolyn, a DigiTruck student
When it comes to online learning, there a number of platforms to choose from.
Free of charge for all Vodacom customers, the platform features multiple South African languages.
While in Kenya, Zeraki offers students a similar solution giving access to highly experienced teachers, online lessons and ways to track performance.
For refugee students who have been displaced from their homes,
Daisy Jardim, an electricity engineer at Vodacom Mozambique, volunteers her time, helping refugee communities use tech for learning.
She tells us how the students' reactions make her realise how important this work is.
“When we give a tablet to a child in a bigger city, they will browse for games or search for their favourite football players on Google. But in these schools, the first thing the children do when they are given a tablet is do their homework.”
To date, the programme has benefited over 224,700 students and 4,263 teachers ensuring that refugees and children from the communities that host them have access to accredited, quality, and relevant learning opportunities.