Airtel Zambia Hands Over Makole Community School in Solwezi, Boosting Digital Education Access

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Airtel Zambia, backed by the Airtel Africa Foundation, has officially handed over the newly upgraded Makole Community School as part of its School Adoption Programme. The K12 million (~US$650,000) investment delivers modern infrastructure and digital learning tools to a rural community school, serving over 855 learners in North-Western Province.

The handover, attended by North-Western Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Luckson Mulumbi, includes:

• A 1×3 classroom block to ease congestion.
• Ablution facilities and a borehole with water tank for improved sanitation and clean water access.
• Classroom desks and furniture.
• A fully equipped computer lab with internet connectivity, enabling digital learning.

This is the second school handed over under a broader initiative supporting five schools across five districts. The programme focuses on rural and underserved areas, addressing infrastructure gaps while introducing technology to prepare students for a digital economy.

Airtel Zambia Managing Director Hussam Baday described the project as reflecting the company’s view that “education is the strongest foundation upon which any nation is built.” The initiative combines physical upgrades with connectivity to bridge the digital divide and support quality learning outcomes.

The School Adoption Programme aligns with Airtel’s wider CSR efforts in education, digital literacy, and community development across Zambia. It complements national goals to expand access to quality education, particularly in remote regions where facilities and technology are often limited.

• Immediate Impact: Reduces overcrowding, improves hygiene and water access, and introduces computer-based learning for hundreds of students.
• Longer-Term: Equips learners with digital skills amid Zambia’s growing emphasis on technology-driven development.
• Broader Reach: Part of a multi-school effort demonstrating scalable private-sector support for public education.

No disputes or implementation concerns have been reported in connection with the handover. Local officials praised the investment for its focus on holistic improvements beyond basic construction.

This development underscores Airtel Zambia’s role as more than a telecom provider actively investing in human capital and digital inclusion in the communities it serves. Similar projects in other districts are expected to follow as the programme rolls out.