The Airtel Africa Foundation, in partnership with UNICEF, has announced a bold initiative aimed at transforming over 10 million lives across the continent by 2030 through education, digital inclusion, environmental sustainability, and financial literacy programmes.

The launch took place on Tuesday during a press conference in Lagos State, where the foundation was officially introduced.

In his remarks, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, emphasized the organisation’s commitment to driving socio-economic progress through education and digital empowerment.

“We are here today to formally present the Airtel Africa Foundation to the world. This foundation extends our tradition of social investment with a stronger platform, a sharper focus, and a groundbreaking vision. For the first time, all our initiatives across the continent will be seen as one cohesive effort, already transforming classrooms, hospitals, rural communities, and cities where digital access often defines opportunity,” Balsingh said.

He added that the foundation is equipping schools with devices, internet connectivity, and teacher training to prepare young Africans for success in the digital economy.

Airtel Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Sunil Taldar, described the initiative as both a business necessity and a guiding philosophy.

“We have visited over 1,200 schools, impacted more than one million students, and trained 17,000 teachers in digital education across our 14 markets. A significant portion of the foundation’s resources will be invested in Nigeria,” Taldar stated.

Since its inception in July 2024, the foundation has operated in Nigeria and 13 other African countries, focusing on bridging the digital divide, equipping young people with 21st-century skills, and fostering economic resilience.

Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, described the project as a catalyst for change and a legacy initiative.

“What makes you rich is not what you have, but what you give,” he noted.

Ogunsanya highlighted efforts such as zero-rated educational platforms, device donations, and school refurbishments as part of the foundation’s drive to open pathways to higher learning.

“We’ve provided IT materials to teachers, installed smart TVs in classrooms, and renovated six schools across Nigeria — one in each region. Our target is to expand to 10 schools for balanced impact,” he said.

The foundation also introduced the Airtel Africa Fellowship, which provides full undergraduate scholarships in technology and STEM fields, along with mentorship, internships, and exchange programmes to nurture Africa’s future innovators.

“Beyond school infrastructure, we are supporting students who cannot afford fees through scholarships. We are also working towards establishing a major tech hub in Nigeria. At present, two Nigerian students are on sponsorship in India, and I am pleased to announce that 100 more scholarships will be awarded to Nigerian students,” Ogunsanya revealed.

He further noted that Airtel employees are at the heart of the mission, with over 1,100 staff volunteering their skills in mentorship, coaching, and community projects across Africa.