MTN Uganda, partnered with Sense International, has successfully launched the Digital Access Program at Ngora School for the Deaf in Eastern Uganda through its corporate social responsibility arm, hashtag#MTNFoundation.
The school, which caters for 101 pupils, is one of the three specialist schools for the deaf in Uganda, making this initiative a significant action towards digital inclusion for students with hearing challenges.
The new computer lab, worth Shs 124 million, has state-of-the-art technology, including 10 computers, a projector, printer, sound amplifiers, power backup, and a one-year maintenance plan. The lab has specialized software that ensures a suitable and accessible learning environment for the diverse needs of the community.
The initiative is in line with the Ambition 2025 Strategy, which aims to bridge the digital gender gap, empower the youth, and support Uganda’s National Development Plan II and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, according to Bryan Mbasa, the Senior Manager for MTN Foundation.
With Uganda having the youngest age structure in the world, this initiative is vital for digital programs. Besides Ngora School for the Deaf, MTN Foundation also supports Salaama School for the Blind, Masaka School for the Deaf, Hornby High School Kabale, and Gulu High School.
MTN is dedicated to national development and a vision for a more inclusive and digitally empowered future, as shown by the entire program, which is estimated at Shs 800 million. The commitment also includes supporting over 42 ICT labs and six technical institutes nationwide, demonstrating MTN Uganda’s lasting commitment to ICT in education.