Lonestar Cell MTN, Liberia’s leading mobile GSM company, has demonstrated its commitment to community development and digital inclusion by training 30 pupils from underserved communities in foundational information and communication technology (ICT) skills. This initiative was part of the company’s annual 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign, themed “Connecting at the roots,” and aligned with the Day of the African Child, emphasizing the use of digital tools as educational resources. The program, conducted in partnership with Lift Initiative, a local NGO focused on child protection and empowerment, aimed to bridge the digital divide and provide valuable ICT skills to children who may otherwise lack access.
The selected students, representing Susan Brooks AME School, Lift’s Young Readers Book Club, Paynesville Public School, and Leeann Christian Institute, participated in a comprehensive day-long training program. MTN staff volunteers led interactive sessions covering key aspects of digital literacy. These sessions included an introduction to internet research skills for schoolwork, emphasizing effective and efficient online research techniques for academic purposes. Another critical component was a module on online safety, equipping the students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the digital world responsibly and protect themselves from online threats. The program also introduced students to digital creation tools, specifically Canva, allowing them to explore basic design work and develop creative digital content.
The program’s impact extends beyond the training sessions. Each participating student received an MTN-branded gift pack, symbolizing encouragement and support for their ICT journey. Furthermore, each student will receive a tablet, a vital tool for continued learning and exploration in the digital realm. This provision of technology aims to empower the students to practically apply their newly acquired skills and further develop their digital literacy. The combination of training and access to technology creates a holistic approach to bridging the digital divide, ensuring that these students have the necessary resources to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
This initiative exemplifies the power of collaborative efforts between corporate entities and grassroots organizations. Mr. C. Foday Emeh, Corporate Communication & CSI/R Manager at Lonestar Cell MTN, highlighted the significance of the partnership between Lonestar Cell MTN and Lift Initiative, emphasizing its potential to uplift communities. By combining corporate leadership with on-the-ground action, this partnership demonstrates a model for effective community development that addresses critical needs and empowers individuals. The focus on ICT skills development further underscores the importance of digital inclusion in driving progress and opportunity within these communities.
The 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign, a broader MTN initiative implemented across Africa and the Middle East, reflects the company’s commitment to social responsibility and its dedication to transforming lives. This year’s focus on “Connecting at the roots” highlights the importance of establishing a strong foundation in ICT, particularly for children in underserved communities. This foundation serves as a springboard for future learning, enabling individuals to access information, connect with others, and participate fully in the global digital economy.
This campaign’s ripple effect goes beyond the immediate beneficiaries. By empowering these young students with digital literacy skills, Lonestar Cell MTN is investing in the future of Liberia. These students are not just recipients of knowledge; they are becoming agents of change within their communities, equipped to leverage technology for their own advancement and the betterment of those around them. The long-term impact of this initiative promises to be significant, contributing to the development of a digitally literate population and fostering greater opportunities for economic and social progress within Liberia.
