The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has boldly enhanced digital literacy and supported girls’ education by donating N$320,000 worth of laptops and sanitary pads to schools, tech hubs, and e-villages.
This donation, announced on Thursday, aims to empower young learners and bridge the digital gap in Namibia.
Empowering education through technology and hygiene
CRAN’s donation is a strategic effort to provide essential tools that enable students, especially girls, to participate fully in the digital age. The laptops will equip schools and tech hubs with the necessary technology to foster digital skills, while the sanitary pads address a critical barrier to girls’ consistent school attendance and participation.
This initiative aligns with CRAN’s ongoing commitment to digital literacy and safe internet use, as highlighted during Safer Internet Day earlier this year, where CRAN emphasised educating children on responsible internet use and digital safety.
By supporting digital access and girls’ health needs, CRAN is tackling two fundamental challenges affecting educational outcomes. Access to technology opens doors to online learning resources and digital engagement while addressing menstrual health, ensuring girls do not miss school due to a lack of sanitary products.
Strengthening Namibia’s Digital Future with Inclusive Initiatives
This donation complements other initiatives spearheaded by CRAN to enhance digital infrastructure and literacy in Namibia. Earlier this year, CRAN launched the Universal Service Fund (USF) to improve telecommunications access in underserved areas, providing subsidies to extend 4G coverage and internet connectivity to rural schools and clinics.
These efforts are part of a broader national strategy to integrate digital skills into education and promote inclusive participation in the digital economy.
Digital literacy is vital for Namibia’s education, governance, and healthcare development. However, challenges such as limited access to technology, lack of training, and cultural barriers remain.
CRAN’s latest donation directly addresses these issues by equipping learners with devices and supporting girls’ school attendance, fostering a more inclusive digital environment.
The collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts & Culture underscores a multi-stakeholder approach to digital empowerment.
As CRAN’s consumer relations manager, Hilya Mhani, noted, “Together, we can embrace the digital future and ensure that every Namibian is equipped to navigate and thrive in the digital age”.
This initiative marks a proactive step towards closing the digital divide and promoting gender equality in education, reinforcing Namibia’s commitment to building a digitally literate and inclusive society.