Samsung Electronics East Africa has launched two solutions in the Kyengera region, Kampala. A Solar Powered Internet School (SPIS), at Mackay College and an E-Learning Centre at Nsangi Secondary School.
The initiatives are an example of Samsung’s investment in corporate citizenship on the continent: a keen focus on education and harnessing the company’s legacy of innovation to respond to the felt needs of people on the continent.
Research done by the World Bank reveals only seven countries in Africa—Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Ghana, Namibia, Senegal and South Africa—have electricity access rates exceeding 50 percent. The rest of the Sub Saharan region has an average grid access rate of just 25 percent, resulting in isolated communities with limited access to education and connectivity – both of which are key to fast-tracking a nation’s development.
“At Samsung, we are keen to support societies and their communities in many different ways and these Solutions will provide better knowledge transfer, learning and research opportunities both for learners and teachers alike, as well as equip them with the necessary employable skills for the future,” said Amos Mulago, Samsung Electronics Uganda , Country Manager said.
The SPIS is built in a 12-metre repurposed container that can accommodate up to 24 pupils, and is fitted with solar panels that power the equipment. It is additionally equipped with an interactive whiteboard, Samsung Laptops, a printer, and fans to cool the container.
The Samsung E-Learning Centre initiative is an integrated platform that boasts of a monitoring and controlling feature which allows teachers to keep constant track of educational content on their learners’ screens. The screens includes screen-sharing feature, as well as real-time question and answer feature.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Education, Dr. Rose Nassali Lukwago, who officiated the event on behalf of the Minister of State for Higher Education, Hon John Chrysestom Muyingo at Mackay College, emphasized that, “the Samsung solutions provide a holistic approach aimed at fast-tracking educational development and ensuring that the youth can participate on a global scale by exposing them to today’s innovative technology.”
To date, Samsung Electronics Africa has rolled out SPIS and E-Learning Centres solutions in countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Gabon, Botswana, Nigeria, Rwanda and South Africa.