The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | St. Catherine Girls Secondary School in Kazo District, Tunaweza Foundation and Code Campus in Mbuya, Kampala, St. Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga in Buikwe District, Revival Girls in Mbarara, and St. John’s Secondary School in Sheema will be equipped with 10 state-of-the-art computers, backup power systems, and a year of free internet access, courtesty of MTN Uganda, through its corporate social responsibility arm, MTN Foundation.
MTN investing Shs390 million to establish fully furnished computer labs in the six educational and training institutions across the country. This initiative, part of MTN’s ongoing Digital Access Program, aims to equip Uganda’s future leaders with access to modern technology.
Bryan Mbasa, Senior Manager at MTN Foundation, emphasizes MTN Uganda’s belief in the transformative power of digital inclusion. He added that this project reflects MTN’s dedication to ensuring every Ugandan student can succeed in today’s digital age.
“We want these computer labs to be more than just rooms filled with machines. We see them as gateways to endless opportunities, where students, especially young women, can gain vital digital skills, broaden their knowledge, and prepare to thrive in the global digital economy.”
This initiative, Mbasa said, aligns with MTN Uganda’s ambitious 2025 Strategy, which focuses on digitally transforming the country and bringing everyone into the digital fold, regardless of socio-economic status. By supporting Uganda’s Vision 2040 and National Development Plan III, MTN is actively contributing to a future where digital skills drive economic growth and equality.
Sr. Jane Kanga, the enthusiastic Headmistress of St. Catherine Girls Secondary School, expresses her excitement over the impact of the support.
“MTN, you’re our hero! This is more than just a computer lab—you have given our girls the keys to their future. Our students are now dreaming bigger and aiming higher. We are excited to see them learn and grow in ways we never imagined before,” Sr. Kanga, whose educational institution received the support a few weeks ago.
Victo Nalule, the Executive Director of Tunaweza Foundation, commended MTN Uganda for the support, noting its impact on vulnerable community members.
“These computers will significantly enhance our ability to equip our youth, including those with disabilities, with vital digital skills,” she said, highlighting that over five hundred people will benefit from this initiative within their operating surroundings.
With over 75% of Uganda’s population under the age of 30, the country’s youth hold enormous potential. However, many young people, particularly young women, face significant challenges, such as high unemployment rates.
According to the World Bank, 16.3% of young women in Uganda are unemployed, compared to the national average of 11.7%. MTN Uganda’s Digital Access Program is addressing these challenges by providing young women with the digital skills necessary to succeed in an increasingly connected world.
Mbasa also highlights the broader importance of MTN’s contribution: “We are committed to helping Ugandan students overcome barriers that prevent them from accessing quality education and digital skills. By doing this, we believe we are unlocking not only their potential but also the potential of our nation.”
To date, MTN Uganda has established ICT labs in over fifty-seven educational institutions nationwide, including six technical institutes such as Amelo Technical Institute in Adjumani, St. Simon Peter’s Vocational Training Centre in Hoima, and St. Daniel Comboni Polytechnic in Moroto.
The ICT labs are installed with MTN Skills Academy to enable training in digital skills for digital jobs. To register and learn at no cost click skillsacademy.mtn.com
