MTN Foundation donates computers to the Angaza Resource Centre.

The donation includes 5 desktop computers, a 3-in-1 printer, a TV screen, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) device and an internet router.

The MTN Foundation’s support will boost ICT and computer literacy among learners who attend underserved schools in the Kibuli area by increasing the Angaza Resource Centre’s capacity to host more children.

The donation is part of the MTN Foundation’s Change Makers’ Initiative, which aims to empower communities in Uganda by supporting their economic empowerment, education, health, water, and environmental sustainability.

“The MTN Foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that provide solutions to community problems and we are so privileged to be given an opportunity to donate to 4040. We hope that this donation will make it easier for children to access education through technology. It is also our hope that they will use the internet to access a pool of information that supports their learning.” Mr. Augustine Lule, Regional Business Manager, MTN Uganda 

The Centre was established by the 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation (4040) in 2023 to provide educational resources such as computers, books and other learning aids to children who attend under-resourced schools.

Since its inception, the Centre has partnered with four primary schools.

Weekly, 220 pupils receive basic ICT and literacy training (alongside other life skills such as communication, public speaking, and problem-solving, among others).

Approximately 35 youth receive similar, but more advanced training every school holiday.

Although the centre has made some strides in improving learning by promoting computer literacy for the children, it has been grappling with inadequate resources such as the number of computers. This donation from the MTN Foundation is a huge boost.

“We thank the MTN Foundation for their generous donation, which will go a long way in strengthening our mission to bridge educational resource gaps for children who attend schools that lack the necessary facilities for learning. The computers will enable us to expand our digital literacy programmes to the communities that we serve.” Ms. Gloria Mbabazi, the Head of the Angaza Resource Centre.

According to Mr. Mbayo John, a teacher at Merowa Junior School, the changes in the education curriculum, especially in secondary schools, have increased the need for facilities such as computer labs to facilitate research amongst learners. However, many schools cannot afford it and it has implications for learning.

“The Angaza Resource Centre is already preparing our learners for secondary education. which requires computer skills. Some of the learners from secondary schools who attend the holiday programme got a chance to use a computer for the first time from the ARC. This donation by MTN will help the ARC to teach a lot more children.” Mbayo said

Hon. Sharifah Ahimbisibwe, the Woman LC3 Chairperson of Kabalagala Parish said that Kibuli as a slum community is faced with educational challenges, some of which the ARC is addressing.

“I have moved around this community and the ARC is one of its kind. It is bringing books and computers to our children, things that parents cannot afford. I am so proud of the impact this place is creating and pledge to continue working with them for the good of our community. I also thank MTN for giving them a boost with this donation.”  Hon. Ahimbisibwe said.

The 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation, founded in 2012, is driven by the conviction to enhance literacy and learning opportunities for underprivileged children.

With immense support from local resource mobilisation, the Foundation has supported over 3,500 children.

Through initiatives such as the Resource Centre, 4040 has made significant strides in increasing school enrollment, retention, and access to quality education in underserved communities.