In a heartwarming celebration of International Women’s Day, Airtel Uganda brought digital empowerment and inspiration to Nakaseke District.
At the Nakaseke Public Library, Airtel employees shared their career experiences and practical tips with women and girls, fostering a sense of community and breaking down barriers to digital literacy.
Breaking Barriers Through Digital Literacy
Digital literacy can seem intimidating at first, but the rewards are life-changing. When women support other women in navigating the digital world, confidence grows, misconceptions fade, and new opportunities emerge.
This was the spirit of the event, as Airtel staff members engaged with the community, sharing insights on financial skills, productivity hacks, time management, leadership, and digital skills for employability.
Through personal stories, the Airtel team emphasized the importance of mentorship and lifelong learning.
“Listening to stories of mentors and courageous leaders is a powerful tool that affirms our dreams as valid and attainable,” one participant shared.
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Real Stories, Real Impact
The event wasn’t just a one-way conversation. The women of Nakaseke also shared their own journeys—stories of dropping out of school, earning degrees that went unused, and discovering digital skills through programs like Microsoft Excel.
One standout participant, Jane Namusisi, a jack-of-all-trades, shared how she used the internet to enhance her baking business.
Despite dropping out of school after Senior Four, Jane has mastered cake design, created new flavors, and marketed her products online.
Her digital skills have enabled her to create multiple income streams, supporting her siblings and reigniting her passion for education.
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A Mother’s Vision for the Future
Miss Beatrice Nakawunde, a community health worker, highlighted the importance of early digital literacy for her children.
“My children will not learn to use computers and the internet at my age. I am investing in this so I can empower them with digital skills earlier in life,” she said.
Airtel’s Commitment to Digital Inclusion
Since 2019, Airtel Uganda has partnered with 14 public libraries across the country to provide internet access and digital learning opportunities.
This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
- SDG 1: Ending poverty through digital skills for employability.
- SDG 5: Empowering women and girls through digital skilling.
- SDG 9: Fostering innovation and technology for sustainable development.
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Reigniting Dreams
For one participant, the event was a turning point. After years of shelving her Economics degree and selling popcorn, she was inspired to revisit her qualifications.
Airtel staff provided practical guidance on resume writing and encouraged her to put her skills to use.
“There is no limit to what women can accomplish,” they reminded her.
A Vision for the Future
Soumendra Sahu, Managing Director of Airtel Uganda, reiterated the company’s commitment to digital transformation.
“At the core of Airtel Uganda’s innovations is the desire to truly transform lives. Through our Digital Communities Program, we are empowering young people and women with the tools they need to thrive in the digital economy,” he said.
A Brighter Digital Future
As Uganda embraces its digital agenda, events like these are crucial in bridging the gap between technology and education.
For the women of Nakaseke, the day was a reminder that their dreams are valid, their potential is limitless, and their futures are bright.
