This archive report was first published on 12 May 2020.
Published on May 12, 2020, a partnership between Safaricom Foundation and Dignitas, a non-governmental organization, aims to provide free access to e-learning tools for students in Kawangware and Dandora.
Students from over one thousand households in these informal settlements will benefit from the initiative, which involves the provision of tablets to student leaders and teachers. These devices will be used to relay education content to other students via SMS and online platforms.
According to Joseph Ogutu, chairman of Safaricom Foundation, the current COVID-19 crisis has disrupted day-to-day learning, leaving some students behind, especially those who cannot afford smartphones or tablets for online learning. He added that the foundation is trying to bridge this divide through philanthropy and products like Shupavu 291, which allows access to learning and revision content via text messages and USSD.
Deborah Kimanthi, Executive Director of Dignitas, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and succeed. She emphasized that many children rely on school for protection and well-being, as well as learning, and that their support will protect their well-being and promote learning at home.
This initiative is part of Safaricom's efforts to provide free access to educational content for primary and secondary school students studying from home. The company has partnered with Eneza Education, Longhorn Publishers, and Viusasa Elimu to offer free educational content through various platforms.
