The Airtel Africa Foundation, in partnership with UNICEF, has launched an ambitious initiative aimed at transforming the lives of over 10 million people across the continent by 2030 through education, digital inclusion, financial literacy, and environmental programmes.
The foundation was officially unveiled on Tuesday at a press conference in Lagos. Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, said the organisation is committed to driving socio-economic growth by equipping Africans with digital skills and educational support.
“This foundation carries forward our tradition of social investment but on a much bigger scale, with sharper focus and a stronger platform,” Balsingh stated. “Already, our projects are making impact in classrooms, hospitals, rural areas, and urban centres where digital access defines opportunity.”
According to him, the foundation is investing in schools by providing digital devices, internet connectivity, and teacher training to prepare young Africans for self-reliance in today’s economy.
Also speaking, Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar described the initiative as both a business commitment and a social philosophy. He revealed that the company has so far visited over 1,200 schools, impacted more than one million students, and trained 17,000 teachers across 14 African markets, with Nigeria receiving a large share of the investment.
Since its inception in July 2024, the Airtel Africa Foundation has been active in Nigeria and 13 other countries, bridging the digital divide and promoting resilience through 21st-century skills.
Chairman of the foundation, Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, described the programme as a legacy initiative and a catalyst for change. “What makes you rich is not what you have, but what you give,” he said.
Ogunsanya explained that the foundation’s projects include the refurbishment of schools, provision of learning devices, installation of smart classroom technology, and scholarships. He disclosed that six schools have already been rebuilt across Nigeria, with plans to extend the initiative to 10 schools for wider coverage.
In addition, the Airtel Africa Fellowship has been launched to provide full undergraduate scholarships in STEM fields, mentorship, internships, and exchange programmes. Currently, two Nigerian students are studying in India under the fellowship, while 100 more scholarships are set to be awarded locally.
Ogunsanya further highlighted the role of Airtel employees, noting that over 1,100 staff members are actively volunteering in mentorship and community development programmes across Africa.
