Close

MTN Uganda’s philanthropic arm, MTN Foundation, on Thursday handed over a fully equipped computer lab to Town View PEAS High School in Bugiri District—marking a significant milestone in the effort to bridge Uganda’s digital divide.

The state-of-the-art facility, comprising 30 modern computers, a full year of free internet connectivity, security cameras, and a reliable power backup system, will ensure uninterrupted access to digital tools for both students and teachers.

This initiative is part of the MTN Foundation’s wider Digital Access Project, which will also provide one year of paid internet connectivity to 29 additional Promoting Equality in African Schools (PEAS) institutions.

Hon. Agnes Taaka Wejuli, Woman Member of Parliament for Bugiri District, tests one of the 30 new computers donated to Town View PEAS High School by MTN Uganda on April 17, 2025. The donation includes one year of free internet connectivity to support digital learning.

With a total investment of UGX 285 million, the project is expected to enhance digital access for more than 16,000 students and their surrounding communities, providing them with the tools and opportunities needed to thrive in the digital economy.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Allan Njagala, Head of Commercial, Eastern Region at MTN Uganda, said the company is committed to enabling every student, regardless of location or background, to enjoy the benefits of a modern, connected life.

“At MTN Uganda, we believe that integrating ICT into education is essential to preparing our learners for the jobs of tomorrow,” said Njagala. “No student should be left behind in the digital age—regardless of where they’re born or which school they attend.”

He added that through the Digital Access Project, MTN Uganda is not only supporting academic achievement but also equipping students with the digital skills, exposure, and confidence needed to excel in an increasingly tech-driven world.

Njagala noted that the initiative aligns with MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 strategy and complements national priorities such as Uganda Vision 2040 and the National Digital Transformation Roadmap, both of which recognize ICT as a critical driver of inclusive and sustainable development.

Hon. Agnes Taaka Wejuli, Woman Member of Parliament for Bugiri District (left), joins the MTN team, PEAS representatives, and teachers and students of Town View PEAS High School in cutting a cake to commemorate the commissioning of the MTN-supported computer lab on April 17, 2025.

Beyond infrastructure, each lab will also provide access to the MTN Skills Academy—a free e-learning platform offering courses in digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and personal development.

“Our school has become a beacon of hope,” said Sophie Namumbali, Head of Studies at Town View PEAS High School. “This lab is a game-changer. It integrates digital education into our existing infrastructure and allows students from this rural setting to compete with peers in urban areas.”

Students, too, welcomed the computer lab with excitement. “For many of us, this is our first time using a computer,” said Abdul Ndifuna, a student at Town View PEAS High School. “We’re now not just learning how to use technology—we’re expanding our minds, exploring new opportunities, and realising that we, too, can shape and thrive in the digital future.”

Hon. Agnes Taaka Wejuli, the Woman Member of Parliament for Bugiri District, commended MTN Uganda for donating a modern computer laboratory to Town View PEAS High School, describing it as a timely and impactful boost to digital education in the region.

Henry Senkasi, Country Director for PEAS Schools, too lauded MTN Uganda for the partnership, emphasizing that access to technology should be a right for all students, regardless of their background or geographical location.

In addition to Town View PEAS High School, other beneficiary institutions under the Digital Access Project include St. Catherine Girls School in Kazo District, Revival Girls High School in Mbarara, and the Tunaweza Foundation in Kampala.

To ensure meaningful and sustainable integration of ICT into learning, the project also includes comprehensive teacher training across all 30 PEAS institutions.

“Through this initiative, we’re not just improving access to technology—we’re transforming learning environments,” Njagala added. “It’s about empowering both students and teachers with the tools to succeed. This isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about building futures. And together with MTN, our education through ICT is unstoppable.”

Since 2015, MTN Uganda has facilitated the establishment of 63 ICT labs nationwide, including nine in technical institutes, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to inclusive and accessible education for all.

                                                     —– END—–

About MTN Uganda Foundation

The MTN Uganda Foundation is a not-for-profit legal entity that was inaugurated in July 2007 as a vehicle through which MTN Uganda implements its corporate social investments (CSI). The Foundation strives to improve the quality of life in communities where MTN Uganda operates in a sustainable way. Its purpose is to bring about meaningful, measurable, and sustainable change that helps disadvantaged and rural communities to become self-sufficient. With a focus on innovative technology, we aim to uplift communities towards independence in this bold new digital world. The Foundation invests resources for social redress, thus economic empowerment, education, health, and humanitarian response. The Foundation implements projects that are highly enabled by ICT solutions.

About MTN Uganda

MTN Uganda is a leading telecoms company in Uganda with a primary objective of carrying on the business of a national operator of a telecommunications network pursuant to the National Telecommunications Operator (NTO) licence granted by the Uganda Telecommunications Commission (UCC). Among our offerings are network services, digital and financial technology services, interconnect and roaming, sale of mobile devices, and MTN Mobile Money (conducted through subsidiary MTN Mobile Money Uganda Limited). MTN has a presence in all 134 districts of Uganda. Services are delivered through a network of over 202,000 MoMo agents, 382,000 MoMo merchants, 200 service stores and 13 main distributors. For the full year period ended June 30, 2024, MTN Uganda had 20.7 million subscribers, 12.5 million MoMo users, and 8.8 million active data users. Visit us at www.mtn.co.ug or follow us on www.youtube.com/mtnug and www.twitter.com/mtnug for assistance.

About the MTN Group

Launched in 1994, the MTN Group is a leading emerging market operator with a clear vision to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world to our 240 million customers in 21 countries in Africa and the Middle East. We are inspired by our belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code “MTN.” We are pursuing our Ambition 2021 strategy, focusing on growth in data, fintech, and digital businesses.

For more information, please contact:

MTN Uganda Press Office: mediadesk.ug@mtn.com

Rhona Arinaitwe: Rhona.Arinaitwe@mtn.com or 0772 123 067

Prisca Baike: Prisca.Baike@mediagepr.com or 0782654083

MTN Uganda participated in the World Autism Awareness Day commemoration today, joining the Autism Society of Uganda and other stakeholders in a solidarity walk in Kampala aimed at raising awareness and advocating for inclusivity.

The event underscored the importance of policy support, access to specialized services, and increased societal awareness to foster a more inclusive environment for children with autism in Uganda.

Speaking during the event, MTN Uganda Chief Executive Officer and Chief Guest, Sylvia Mulinge, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fostering social and economic inclusion for individuals with autism.

MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge joins participants in a walk to commemorate World Autism Awareness Day in Kampala on April 2, 2025.

Mulinge revealed that her journey in understanding autism in Uganda began just two weeks ago when she visited Teens and Tots Neuro Development Centre in Kira Municipality. During this visit, MTN Uganda, through the MTN Changemakers initiative, provided vocational skills equipment including sawing machines, baking, digital devices, and soap-making supplies among others, to empower children with autism and their vulnerable parents. This initiative aligns with the company’s Ambition 2025 Strategy, which prioritizes social and digital inclusion.

“My visit to Teens and Tots was an enlightening experience that emphasized the need for greater investment in autism awareness and support,” she stated.
“Today’s event is therefore not merely about raising awareness—it is a call to action to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has access to the opportunities necessary to thrive.”

MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge signs a board as a commitment in commemoration for World Autism Awareness Day in Kampala on April 2, 2025.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one out of 100 children worldwide suffers from autism. However, in Uganda, the prevalence of autism stands at an estimated 88 people per 10,000, according to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS).

The central region has the highest number of autistic individuals in the country, with 106,749 cases, followed by the Eastern region with 101,334 cases. Northern Uganda has the lowest number, with 80,705 people living with the disorder.

Research suggests that autism awareness in the country is increasing; however, significant challenges remain, particularly in human resources, according to a 2020 study titled Knowledge Gaps about Autism Spectrum Disorders and its Clinical Management among Child and Adolescent Health Care Workers in Uganda.

Many families continue to face difficulties in accessing specialized services, while societal misconceptions about autism persist, according to the Autism Society of Uganda.

“As a society, it is imperative that we recognize neurodiversity as an asset rather than a limitation,” said Dorothy Nambi, the Executive Director of the Autism Society of Uganda.
“Achieving this requires a concerted effort from parents, educators, policymakers, and businesses. We must advocate for inclusive policies, foster supportive learning environments, and embrace a mindset that values the unique capabilities of individuals with autism.”

Warm-up at Kati Kati restuarant in Kampala a head of the walk to commemorate World Autism Awareness Day in Kampala on April 2, 2025.

MTN Uganda’s corporate social responsibility programs prioritize initiatives that advance empowerment and inclusion, as envisioned in its Ambition 2025 Strategy. The company aims to ensure that everyone not only enjoys the benefits of a modern, connected life but also has a meaningful and decent life in today’s world.

Through strategic partnerships and targeted investments, MTN Uganda seeks to ensure that individuals with autism are acknowledged, supported, and provided with opportunities to maximize their potential.

“As we observe World Autism Awareness Day, we urge all stakeholders to translate today’s momentum into sustained action. Advocacy, policy reforms, and community engagement are critical in shaping a more inclusive Uganda. Together, we can cultivate a society in which no one is marginalized—because ‘Together, Our Prosperity is Unstoppable,’” Mulinge added.

At the event, the Autism Society launched a fundraising campaign for a van to cater for the transport needs of the children. MTN Uganda, through the MTN Foundation, is contributing a seed amount of UGX 5 million. The State Minister for Gender, Labour, and Social Development in charge of Children and Youth Affairs, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi contributed another UGX 3 million towards the course.

Join us in making a difference with a contribution towards the much needed 70 million shillings through MoMo code 179748

World Autism Awareness Day, held annually on April 2, was established following a United Nations General Assembly resolution adopted on December 18, 2007. The resolution encourages United Nations (UN) Member States to implement measures that promote autism awareness on a global scale.

                                                   

MTN Uganda, through its MTN Changemakers initiative, has today provided computers, a work station and desks worth UGX 20million in support of St. Mary Gorreti Secondary School, Ngetta, as part of its commitment to promoting inclusive education.

Established last year by Itinga Charity Education Foundation (ICEF) and its partners, the school now caters to Senior One and Senior Two students, with an enrollment of 45 learners—10 of whom are totally blind and 12 with low or partial blindness.

The contribution includes three desktop computers equipped with Braille JAWS software to facilitate learning for visually impaired students, as well as 40 desks, creating 80 additional learning spaces to ensure every student has a conducive study environment.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Brian Kagwisagye, MTN’s Regional Business Manager for Northern Uganda, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fostering accessible education for all.

“Education remains one of the most powerful tools for empowerment, yet for many learners with disabilities, access remains a challenge. Our support to St. Mary Gorreti Secondary School, Ngetta, reflects our belief that no child should be left behind. Through technology and infrastructure support, we hope to enable these students to pursue their ambitions unhindered,” he said.

Brian noted that this intervention, under the MTN Foundation, is part of MTN Uganda’s broader Ambition 2025 strategy, which aims not only to foster digital and financial inclusion but also to promote education for all across Uganda. He added that the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 on quality education and Goal 10 on reduced inequalities.

ICEF, the driving force behind the school, continues to champion inclusive education by ensuring that learners with disabilities receive the necessary resources for academic success.

Acen Kevin, the Executive Director of ICEF, welcomed MTN Uganda’s contribution, stating:

“This initiative will significantly enhance the learning experience of our students, particularly those with visual impairments. By providing assistive technology and improving classroom infrastructure, MTN Uganda is not only addressing immediate challenges but also laying the foundation for a more inclusive educational system.”

Brian further highlighted that, in this second edition of the MTN Changemakers Initiative, MTN Uganda is investing UGX 500 million in 25 projects across the country, supporting organizations that are driving change in key sectors such as education, health, and economic development.

As part of these efforts, MTN Uganda has also extended support to pediatric cancer care at the Bless a Child Foundation, education programs under the 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation, and vocational training through the Hands of Hope Skilling Centre in Iganga and the Empowering Single Mothers and Deprived Children in Education (ESMDCE) initiative in Kabarole, among others.

Last year, MTN Uganda, through the MTN Changemakers initiative, invested UGX 500 million in 25 community-driven projects, reinforcing its commitment to making a lasting impact in communities across the country.

MTN Uganda’s Corporate Social Responsibility arm, MTN Foundation, has today made a significant contribution to the Empowering Single Mothers and Deprived Children in Education (ESMDCE) project in Kabarole District, donating vocational training equipment valued at UGX 15.4 million.

This support is part of MTN’s Changemaker initiative, which is committed to fostering economic empowerment and improving educational outcomes for vulnerable communities.

ESMDCE, founded in 2023, focuses on providing single mothers and underprivileged children with access to skills training and education, two key barriers to economic mobility in Uganda.

The donation will benefit 71 women, equipping them with the tools necessary to launch tailoring businesses, while 135 children will receive school fees and scholastic materials to support their education.

The donation includes a range of vocational training tools: three industrial machines, an overlock machine, a baby lock machine, 10 foot-pedal machines, semi-industrial machines, a cupboard, a flat iron, sewing threads, sewing needles, and a variety of sewing materials.

For the women, these resources will provide the skills needed for self-employment, while the children will be able to continue their schooling—critical steps in breaking the poverty cycle.

Robert Kugonza, founder of ESMDCE, said MTN Uganda’s support will help transform the lives of the vulnerable population.

“This support will equip the beneficiaries with practical skills and educational opportunities that will shape their futures. For many, this is the first step towards financial independence and the chance to change the course of their lives,” he said.

Andrew Tusubira, Regional Commercial Head – West at MTN Uganda, emphasized that the telecom company is committed not only to ensuring everyone enjoys the benefits of a modern, connected life but also to promoting a life of dignity and opportunity for all.

“This partnership reflects our belief that empowerment goes beyond just providing resources; it’s about creating sustainable opportunities that uplift entire communities. Together, our ambition is unstoppable,” he said.

Tusubira said that in this second cohort of the MTN Changemakers Initiative, under the MTN Foundation, MTN Uganda is investing UGX 500 million in 25 projects countrywide, supporting organizations that are driving change in key sectors such as education, health, and economic development.

In addition to ESMDCE, MTN Uganda has extended support to pediatric cancer care at the Bless A Child Foundation, education programs under the 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation, and vocational training through the Hands of Hope Skilling Centre, among others.

More initiatives are planned, including support for Kalangala Home for Children with Special Needs, the Bushenyi Carpentry Project, and water access projects in Lira and Soroti.

Last year, MTN Uganda, through the MTN Changemakers initiative, invested UGX 500 million in 25 community-driven projects.

These efforts are part of MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 strategy to address social inequalities while contributing to the country’s economic and social development.

MTN Uganda, through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, MTN Foundation, has today officially inaugurated a new school block at Ocokican Community Secondary School in Ocokican Sub-County, Soroti District, in Eastern Uganda.

This significant development includes two classrooms, a laboratory, 60 desks, 10 lab tables, 60 stools, a water harvesting system, two sanitary facilities, and a borehole. The total investment for this project is Shs327 million, further demonstrating MTN Uganda’s commitment to supporting education and community development across the country.

The commissioning of this new school block is a key milestone in MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 strategy, which is focused on enhancing the quality of education, promoting digital inclusion, and improving living standards. The investment also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which calls for inclusive and equitable education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge emphasized the vital role of education in transforming communities.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” she quoted Nelson Mandela, the first democratically elected President of South Africa, underscoring the pivotal role education plays in shaping the future.

 “This new school block is more than just a building; it represents a foundation of hope and the beginning of a brighter future for the students and the entire community.”

Mulinge stated that MTN Uganda believes everyone should not only enjoy the benefits of a modern, connected life but also have access to quality education.

 “These new classrooms symbolize the aspirations of the students, families, and the entire community,” she noted. “We believe that when young minds are given the right tools and environment, they will rise to the occasion and shape the future.”

The Ocokican Community Secondary School was established in 2022 to address the urgent need for secondary education facilities in the area. Previously, students had to travel 10 to 15 kilometers to access secondary schools, a distance that made education inaccessible for many. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the community, the school’s enrollment has surged by 79% in just six months, from 67 to 120 students. This remarkable growth underscores the importance of local investments in education.

With the addition of new classrooms and a fully equipped laboratory, the school now offers a more comprehensive educational experience, enabling students to benefit from practical, hands-on learning. The installation of a water harvesting system and borehole not only ensures reliable access to clean water but also enhances health and sanitation for both students and the broader community.

Florence Abago, the head teacher of Ocokican Community Secondary School, expressed deep appreciation for MTN Uganda’s support.

“Today marks a new chapter for our school and our students,” she said. “This new school block will provide a nurturing environment where our learners can thrive, and we are immensely grateful to MTN Uganda for their generous contribution. The investment in education is an investment in our community’s future, and we are excited to see the positive impact this will have on our students and their dreams.”

Anna Ebaju Adeke, the Woman Member of Parliament for Soroti District, said she is pleased to be in leadership at a time when MTN Uganda is making a tangible difference in education in her area.

“I am privileged to serve at a time when organizations like MTN Uganda are stepping up to support education in our communities. This initiative is not just an investment in schools but in the future of our children,” she said.

She also commended the foundation for its commitment to transforming lives through education and ensuring that every child has a chance to succeed.

Over the years, MTN Uganda has made substantial investments in the educational infrastructure of several schools, including Salama School for the Blind in Mukono, Horizon International High School in Isingiro, and Aspire High School in Ibanda District.

These efforts are part of MTN Uganda’s ongoing commitment to improving learning environments and expanding access to quality education for students countrywide.

.

                                                     

MTN Uganda, through its corporate social responsibility arm, MTN Foundation, has donated vocational training equipment to Teens and Tots Neuro Development Centre in Kira Municipality, Kampala.

The initiative aims to support parents of children with autism and young adults with disabilities by equipping them with skills to build sustainable livelihoods.

The donation, valued at UGX 20 million, includes industrial sewing machines, baking equipment, digital devices, and soap-making supplies. The move is part of MTN Foundation’s Changemakers Initiative, which provides funding and resources to grassroots organizations working in areas such as economic empowerment, education, and healthcare.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge said the initiative reflects the company’s broader commitment to fostering inclusion and economic independence.

“For real progress to happen, we must ensure that everyone has access to opportunities that can improve their lives. This initiative is about empowering families with practical skills that help them generate income and build a sustainable future,” she said.

Mulinge re-echoed that through the MTN Changemakers Initiative, MTN Uganda is supporting 25 projects this year with a UGX 500 million investment—the same scale of support as last year—empowering dreamers to turn their visions into meaningful community transformations.

MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge address participants during MTN’s donation to Teens and Tots Neuro Development Centre in Kira Municipality on March 18, 2025.

The Teens and Tots Neuro Development Centre, established in 2012, provides specialized education, therapy, and vocational training for children with special needs. The new equipment will expand the Centre’s capacity to offer training in tailoring, baking, digital literacy, and artisanal crafts, helping over 500 caregivers and young adults develop skills for employment and entrepreneurship.

Sarah Kisitu, the Centre’s Executive Director, welcomed the support.

“This contribution gives families a chance to become more self-reliant. Many of them struggle to make ends meet, and these skills will offer new pathways to economic stability,” she said.

The MTN Foundation Changemakers Initiative, launched two years ago, has already supported multiple projects, including pediatric cancer care at the Bless A Child Foundation, education programs under 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation, and vocational training through Hands of Hope Skilling Centre.

MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge interacts with children with autism at Teens and Tots Neuro Development Centre in Kira Municipality on March 18, 2025.

More initiatives are planned, including support for Kalangala Home for Children with Special Needs, the Bushenyi Carpentry Project, and water access projects in Lira and Soroti.

Last year, MTN Uganda, through MTN Foundation, invested UGX 500 million in 25 community projects nationwide, aligning with its Ambition 2025 strategy to promote digital and financial inclusion while driving long-term social impact.

MTN Uganda, through its MTN Foundation, in partnership with Sense International Uganda, has today officially handed over a fully equipped computer lab to St. Francis Primary School for the Blind in Soroti. The initiative aims to enhance digital inclusion for learners with disabilities.

The new computer lab, part of the Foundation’s Digital Access Project, is designed to provide 122 pupils—53 girls and 69 boys—with the digital literacy skills they need to succeed in today’s technology-driven world.

The lab is equipped with 10 computers, including specialized software such as JAWS (Job Access With Speech) for visually impaired learners, sound amplifiers, scanners, printers, and one year of free internet connectivity.

“This initiative is a game-changer for our pupils,” said Sister Rose Abongi Alyabo, the headteacher of St. Francis Primary School for the Blind. “For a long time, our learners have missed out on digital education due to limited resources. With these new facilities, they now have the opportunity to learn, explore, and develop skills that will open doors to a brighter future.”

While technology is a critical component of modern education, many learners with disabilities in Uganda face challenges due to a lack of infrastructure and digital tools. This new lab aims to bridge that gap, ensuring equal learning opportunities for all students.

Rev. Fr. Geoffrey Akiso Odongo, representing Catholic Bishop of Soroti Diocese, who was the chief guest at the ceremony, commended MTN Uganda for its efforts in digital inclusion.

“This initiative shows what we can achieve when we work together to support our communities. Technology is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. By equipping schools like St. Francis with ICT tools, MTN is helping build a better future for our children and our country,” he said.

The MTN Foundation’s Digital Access Project is a UGX 1 billion investment aimed at setting up 11 computer labs across Uganda, five of which are inclusive labs designed for learners with visual and hearing impairments.

In addition to St. Francis, inclusive labs will also be established at Iganga Secondary School, Kisoro Demonstration Primary School, Nvara Secondary School in Arua, and Ngetta Girls Primary School in Lira.

“At MTN Uganda, we believe everyone deserves access to the benefits of a modern, connected life,” said Nelson Munyanda, manager of the MTN Foundation. “Technology can break barriers and unlock the full potential of every individual. Through initiatives like the Digital Access Project, we are ensuring that no one is left behind—especially learners with disabilities.”

Edward Otim, Regional Director for Sense International East Africa noted that the new computer lab will significantly enhance digital literacy for learners with deaf blindness, ensuring they have access to the latest technologies in the modern world.

The students at St. Francis shared their excitement about the new learning opportunities. “These computers will help us transcribe our work, reducing the workload of writing in braille and making research easier,” said Francis Wamimbi, a P7 learner.

“The computers will also help us improve our spelling and access educational content. With JAWS software, we can correct mistakes in our notes and exams, making learning more effective,” added Kem Federeta, also a P7 learner.

This initiative aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040, the country’s Digital Transformation Roadmap, and several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 on Quality Education, SDG 5 on Gender Equality, and SDG 10 on Reduced Inequalities.

Over the years, MTN Uganda has supported the establishment of 63 ICT labs in schools, vocational centers, and prisons, often in partnership with organizations such as Sense International Uganda, Promoting Equality in African Schools, Enabel, and public resource centers at various district local governments.

MTN also encourages responsible internet use and urges vigilance to protect children online. Report any Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) at Child online protection | MTN.com to help create a safer digital space.

                                                       

MTN Uganda, through its corporate social responsibility arm, MTN Foundation, is excited to announce its latest initiative to boost digital access and education at St. Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga. As part of its commitment to empowering youth and bridging the digital divide, MTN Uganda is providing 10 computers, a year of free internet access, and backup power systems, valued at UGX 65 million. 

This initiative aims to support the 392 students aged 13 to 20 at St. Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga, equipping them with the essential tools needed to thrive in today’s digital landscape. With over three-quarters of Uganda’s population under the age of 30, the youth represent immense potential for the future. However, many young people face barriers to accessing quality education and digital skills, limiting their participation in the modern economy. 

“Today is not just about handing over equipment; it’s about opening doors to knowledge and opportunities for our youth,” said Bryan Mbasa, Senior Manager MTN Foundation 

“We believe that everyone, regardless of their background, deserves the chance to benefit from a modern connected life. This donation is a vital step in empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem solvers.” 

The donation aligns with MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 Strategy, which focuses on driving digital transformation across the country. This initiative also supports Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by promoting digital literacy and capability nationwide. 

New computer lab at St. Joseph’s Seminary in Nyenga courtesy of MTN Uganda.

As part of its Digital Access Program, MTN Uganda is investing over UGX 390 million this year to establish computer labs in various schools and communities across Uganda, including St. Catherine Girls Secondary School and Tunaweza Foundation. St. Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga proudly joins this list as the third beneficiary, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to quality education since its founding in 1924. Other schools set to benefit from this initiative include Revival Girls in Mbarara District, and St. John’s Secondary School in Sheema District as well as Code Campus a digital literacy community organization operation in the slums of Kampala 

Fr. Eugene Safari, the Rector of St. Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga, expressed gratitude for MTN Uganda’s generous support. “MTN’s commitment to providing us with a fully equipped computer lab truly highlights its dedication to empowering our future leaders with the skills they need to thrive in today’s digital world,” he said. 

 “We are excited that this lab will give our students access to modern technology and digital resources, helping to cultivate a skilled and tech-savvy workforce for a brighter tomorrow.” 

Fr. Dr. Musinya Richard Kayondo, the vicar general of Lugazi Diocese, who doubles as the Chairperson Board of Directors, St Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga, expressed gratitude to MTN for the contribution. He urged seminarians to use the computer lab responsibly. 

Mbasa emphasized that access to technology is only the beginning, stating, “The real impact comes from how students utilize these resources. We encourage both students and teachers to embrace this opportunity to explore, learn, and prepare for their futures.” 

MTN Uganda has long been at the forefront of supporting ICT in education, having established over 57 ICT labs in educational institutions nationwide. This includes six technical institutes, such as Amelo Technical Institute in Adjumani District, St. Simon Peter’s Vocational Training Centre in Hoima District, Millenium Vocational Training Centre in Hoima, Uganda Technical Institute in Masindi, Kasese Polytechnic and St. Daniel Comboni Polytechnic in Moroto District. 

The students are also free to sign up and learn digital skills for digital jobs on the MTN Skills Academy website MTN Skills Academy | Home. 

Kyenjojo District, Uganda – Today, MTN Uganda, through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, MTN Foundation, celebrates the achievements of 571 youth, including 309 females, who successfully graduated with ICT certificates from the company’s Digital Literacy Program.

The initiative, designed to empower youth and address the digital divide, has been a key pillar of MTN’s broader mission to foster digital inclusivity across Uganda.

The graduates completed 10 intensive days of training through MTN’s innovative Internet Bus and MTN Skills Academy – an online platform that offers mobile digital education to underserved communities.

The training sessions took place across various locations in western Uganda, including at Hoima Public Library in Hoima District, Rap Tech Institute of Business and Technology in Ntungamo District, Nakivale Vocational Training Centre in Isingiro District, and Hearts and Hands Vocational Institute in Kyenjojo District.

This program aims to inspire graduates to leverage their newly acquired ICT skills to pursue higher education, explore entrepreneurial ventures, or seek employment opportunities.

Since inception, the Digital Literacy Program has equipped 4795 youth with essential skills, with a long-term goal to train one million young people by 2025 through the MTN Skills Academy.

“The digital training initiative aligns with MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 Strategy, which is dedicated to advancing digital transformation and ensuring that all Ugandans, regardless of their economic or social background, can enjoy the benefits of a connected life,” said Bryan Mbasa, Senior Manager at MTN Foundation during the graduation ceremony at Heart and Hands Foundation.

The program, valued at over Shs500 million and provided free of charge in partnership with Maendeleo Foundation, a local non-governmental organization,  is part of a larger effort to support the Ugandan government’s Vision 2040, National Development Plan III, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These initiatives focus on inclusivity, equity, and economic empowerment for all Ugandans.

“Increasing youth unemployment is a significant challenge in Uganda, while businesses face a growing demand for skilled workers in digital technology. This program, in partnership with various ICT stakeholders, aims to address this gap by equipping youth who may not have had the opportunity with the skills they need to succeed in today’s tough economic environment,” Mbasa said.

Uganda’s youthful population—over three-quarters of w hom are under the age of 30—holds tremendous potential for the nation’s future. Yet, high unemployment rates, particularly for women at 16.3%, present an ongoing challenge. As Uganda continues to experience a shortage of ICT skills, bridging the digital skills gap is critical for job seekers and employers alike.

“Urgent action is needed to help young people develop their digital capabilities and access learning and employment opportunities,” Mbasa emphasized. “That is why equipping youth with the tools to thrive in the digital economy is one of our top priorities.”

MTN Uganda has also established 48 ICT labs in educational institutions nationwide, benefiting thousands of learners. This includes six technical institutes, such as Amelo Technical Institute in Adjumani District, St. Simon Peter’s Vocational Training Centre in Hoima District, and St. Daniel Comboni Polytechnic in Moroto District.

Empowering Uganda’s youth with digital skills not only improves their individual employment prospects but also enhances the labour market by boosting productivity, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth.

“Without inclusive, equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all, Uganda will struggle to achieve gender equality and break the cycle of poverty,” Mbasa added.

The celebration also featured a learner’s quiz, where the best-performing participants were awarded laptops and mi-fi devices with three months of internet access, enabling them to continue their learning journey and share their knowledge within their communities.

Julian Ayesiga Akiiki, the Resident District Commissioner for Kyenjojo District, commended MTN Uganda for collaborating with the government to empower the youth by providing them with essential skills to enhance their lives and positively impact their communities.

“To the graduates, I say this: You hold the future in your hands. The knowledge you have gained in the training is your stepping-stone to greater achievements,” she said.

“Whether you choose to further your education, start a business, or enter the workforce, the digital skills you now possess will serve you well. Remember, the world is rapidly changing, and those who can adapt, innovate, and embrace technology will be the leaders of tomorrow.”

Vocational education in the Albertine region has received a major boost following the handover of a fully furnished ICT laboratory to Millennium Business School today. The facility jointly established by MTN Uganda and Enabel is aimed at facilitating ICT-enhanced learning.

Enabel Resident Representative Tom Vanneste says that given the importance of ICT skills in today’s world of work, the laboratory will play a key role in preparing young people for employment.

“ICT in education has been reduced to learning basic ICT skills, including word processing and working with spreadsheets. To bring vocational education into the 21st century, ICT will need to find its way into the workshops e.g. by utilizing car diagnostics apps for motor vehicle maintenance in the practical instruction workshops,” Vanneste says.

He however reveals that many vocational training institutes lack adequate computers, trained ICT staff, and ICT content and programmes.

To address the challenge, MTN Uganda provided computers and servers. It also supported the production of audio-visual learning teaching and learning content. MTN will additionally provide Millennium Business School internet for at least one year.

“The internet is full of relevant online Open Educational Resources that could help to boost technical and vocational training and keep learning up to date with the latest technology,” Vanneste says.

This is the second phase of the partnership between MTN and Enabel. In the initial phase, the Belgian development agency worked with the telecommunications provider to establish similar ICT laboratories at Amelo Technical Institute (Adjumani), St. Simon Peter’s Vocational Training Centre (Hoima), and St. Daniel Comboni Polytechnic (Moroto).

This second phase targets another set of three institutions including Millennium Business School. Other beneficiary institutions include; Uganda Technical College Kyema and Kasese Youth Polytechnic.

“MTN Uganda is intently committed to delivering the benefits of a modern connected world to everyone. We believe in creating leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress and accelerating the achievement of this vision through strategic partnerships such as the one with Enabel ” said the Senior Manager MTN Uganda Foundation, Bryan Mbasa.

Enabel through the Support to Skilling Uganda project is upgrading the institutions receiving the ICT support to Centres of Vocational Excellence through various initiatives including integration of ICT in teaching and learning, infrastructure development, private sector-led vocational training, etc.