This archive report was first published on 14 May 2020.
On May 14, 2020, Absa Bank Kenya PLC announced a new initiative to support schools and parents in acquiring e-learning infrastructure during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the suspension of physical learning, forcing schools to find alternative means to continue teaching. In response, the government has recommended the adoption of virtual learning, but this has been hindered by the lack of supporting infrastructure, including laptops, tablets, or smartphones for teachers and students.
Absa Bank Kenya Managing Director Jeremy Awori stated, “the world is faced with one of the biggest crises of our time, and as Kenyans, businesses, and individuals alike, we have a role to play in minimizing the economic and social impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our country.”
Through this new initiative, Absa Bank will support schools in procuring e-learning infrastructure, including hardware and software required to enable e-learning during this period. The bank will also provide finances for parents who may need to purchase laptops for their school-going children.
Absa Bank has reviewed its credit terms and is offering various relief options to cushion schools against the financial difficulties presented by COVID-19. Awori added, “due to the prevailing economic conditions, some of our customers, through no fault of their own, are struggling to meet their financial obligations. We would like to continue working with them through our various payment relief options as well as the reviewed credit opportunities to provide the much-needed continuity during this period.”
