Airtel Zambia has strengthened its commitment to improving education in rural communities by handing over a newly constructed classroom block, ablution facilities, a borehole, and a fully equipped computer laboratory to Makole Community School in Solwezi District.

The development is expected to significantly improve learning conditions for more than 800 pupils while expanding access to digital learning opportunities in the area.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, North-Western Province Permanent Secretary Colonel Grandson Katambi (Retired) described the project as a major milestone in enhancing access to quality education and creating a conducive learning environment for learners.

In remarks delivered on his behalf by Deputy Permanent Secretary Luckson Mulumbi, Col. Katambi said the newly completed infrastructure would provide learners with safe and dignified learning spaces while improving sanitation and access to clean water for both the school and the surrounding community.

He praised the long-standing partnership between Zambia Open Community Schools (ZOCS) and Airtel Zambia, noting that their collaboration has played a critical role in supporting education through the construction and rehabilitation of learning infrastructure across the country.

“For more than five years, this partnership has positively impacted community schools across Zambia through the provision of essential educational facilities,” he said.

Col. Katambi emphasized that the Government values such partnerships because they complement national efforts aimed at ensuring every child has access to equitable and quality education, regardless of geographical location or social background.

He further highlighted the New Dawn Government’s commitment to education, citing the Free Education Policy as one of its most significant achievements. According to him, the policy has led to increased school enrolment nationwide, creating a growing demand for classrooms, sanitation facilities, and other critical educational infrastructure.

The Permanent Secretary said the facilities delivered to Makole Community School demonstrate how strategic public-private partnerships can help bridge infrastructure gaps and improve learning outcomes in underserved communities.

Meanwhile, Airtel Zambia Managing Director Hussam Baday reaffirmed the telecommunications company’s dedication to expanding access to quality education, particularly in rural and marginalized areas.

Mr. Baday revealed that Makole Community School had been operating with only one classroom block and a temporary metallic shelter despite serving more than 800 learners. He said the newly constructed classroom block and ablution facilities would ease congestion and provide a more conducive environment for teaching and learning.

He added that the internet-connected computer laboratory would play a key role in bridging the digital divide by equipping learners with essential digital skills needed in today’s technology-driven world.

“For learners in a remote area such as Makole, access to the internet is transformative because it provides exposure to a world of knowledge and digital learning resources,” Mr. Baday said.

The Airtel Zambia Managing Director also disclosed that through the Airtel Africa Foundation School Adoption Programme, the company is investing K12 million this year towards the construction and refurbishment of community schools in five districts across Zambia.

Following the successful handover of Kamulaseni Community School in Chipata and Makole Community School in Solwezi, Airtel Zambia plans to commission and hand over three additional schools in Mongu, Mansa, and Mufulira in the coming months.

Mr. Baday thanked the Government, ZOCS, and the local community for their support in making the project a success. He also encouraged learners to take good care of the new facilities and use them to pursue their educational goals.

He reaffirmed Airtel Zambia’s commitment to contributing to national development through continued investment in education, digital inclusion, and community empowerment initiatives across the country.