• MTN Uganda, through the MTN Foundation’s Digital Access Project, has today handed over a fully equipped ICT facility to St. John’s Secondary School Nyabwina in Sheema District, marking a major milestone in the telco’s efforts to bridge the digital divide in rural Uganda.

• The ICT lab consists of 10 modern computers, a one-year of free internet connectivity, and backup power solutions.

• The investment is part of MTN’s nationwide push to expand digital education infrastructure under a UGX 1 billion program supporting 11 secondary schools, five of which are inclusive institutions for learners with disabilities.

• To date, MTN Uganda has established 63 ICT labs across the country, including nine in technical and vocational institutions.

MTN Uganda, through the MTN Foundation’s Digital Access Project, has today handed over a fully equipped ICT facility to St. John’s Secondary School Nyabwina in Sheema District, marking a major milestone in the telco’s efforts to bridge the digital divide in rural Uganda.

The ICT lab consists of 10 modern computers, a one-year of free internet connectivity, and backup power solutions. The investment is part of MTN’s nationwide push to expand digital education infrastructure under a UGX 1 billion program supporting 11 secondary schools, five of which are inclusive institutions for learners with disabilities.

“This is more than the provision of computers; it is a gateway to opportunity,” said Fazil Damulira, the Regional Business Manager for South West at MTN Uganda, during the launch. “At MTN, we believe that digital access is not a privilege it is a right. Every student, no matter their background, should have the tools to thrive in a modern, connected world.”

The intervention at St. John’s is expected to benefit more than 1,000 students, giving them access to vital digital resources to support coding, online research, academic enrichment, and innovation.

Uganda’s 2024 National Census data shows that only 4% of households own a computer, highlighting the need for expanded digital access in schools to bridge the gap in digital literacy.

The initiative also speaks to a larger economic concern: youth unemployment in Uganda currently stands at 16.3%, with over 70% of the population under the age of 30. Equipping students with digital skills is seen as a critical step in addressing this challenge and preparing young people for the jobs of tomorrow.

Constatine Byabakama, Head Teacher of St. John’s Secondary School Nyabwina, hailed the initiative as transformative for the school and the wider community.

“This ICT lab donated by MTN isn’t just for students it’s open to the whole community,” said Byamaka Constantine, Headmaster of St. John’s SS Nyabwina.

“Thank you MTN Uganda for the free internet and shared access. Research and lifelong learning are thriving.”

Evelyn Kenyangi, the District Education Officer of Sheema District, who officiated as chief guest, commended MTN Uganda for supporting government efforts to strengthen ICT access in education.

“This is a timely and strategic investment. The future belongs to those who are digitally literate, and by equipping our schools with ICT infrastructure, we are setting the stage for inclusive national development,” she said. “I encourage our students to use this lab responsibly and with ambition.”

St. John’s Secondary School is the latest beneficiary in a growing list of educational institutions supported under MTN Uganda’s Digital Access Project. Other recipients include Iganga SS, Ngetta Girls Primary School, St. Francis School for the Blind, and additional schools in Kabale, Iganga, and Gulu, among others.

The program aligns with MTN Group’s Ambition 2025 strategy, which seeks to lead digital solutions for Africa’s progress, as well as Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the National Digital Transformation Roadmap, which prioritize technology as a lever for inclusive economic growth. Globally, it contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

“This lab is a symbol of our long-term commitment to building a Uganda where no student is left behind,” Damulira added. “It is not just about equipment; it’s about empowerment, and giving young people the tools to lead, innovate, and shape the future.”

To date, MTN Uganda has established 63 ICT labs across the country, including nine in technical and vocational institutions. The company says the Digital Access Project will continue to scale, reaching more schools in underserved communities.