By Our Reporter
Airtel Uganda has introduced free unlimited WiFi internet to two major public libraries in Kampala, granting users access to high speed internet connectivity.
The two libraries include; Uganda Community Libraries Association in Kawempe and National Library of Uganda along Buganda Road. The company is in the last stages of connecting the KCCA Library.
The Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, which aims at scaling up ICT in education, is in line with Airtel’s efforts to provide modern internet connectivity.
Speaking at the launch event held at Uganda Community Libraries Association of Uganda, Airtel Uganda Managing Director Mr. V.G. Somasekhar said the initiative will enhance user experience in public libraries. “The libraries will be connected to internet with a capacity of 10Mbps. With this connectivity, users in the libraries will enjoy an improved experience in internet-based research, online book access and reading thus boosting digital education in Uganda,” he said.
Commenting about the initiative, Mr. Justine Kiyemba, the Chairman of Uganda Community Libraries Association said; “The youth are a very important pillar and enabler of development in Uganda. With access to the internet, service delivery especially in education will be enhanced to the benefit of the community and the nation. I thank Airtel for their commitment towards the development of Uganda,” he commented.
Esther Kyazike, the Treasurer of the Board of Uganda Community Libraries Association and the Manager of the Library thanked Airtel Uganda for this initiative. “At the Kawempe Youth Center, young people come in to learn a number of life lessons as well as skills necessary for them to go through the complexities of growing up, handling life’s opportunities and challenges. I thank Airtel because with full time internet, we shall be able to complement the lessons we teach with documentaries and real-life lessons from across the world,” she noted.
The initiative comes on the heels of the launch of 100% 4G LTE coverage across the country making Airtel the first telco to achieve this milestone in Uganda.