KAMPALA, Uganda — MTN Uganda has stepped up its drive to bridge the digital divide by donating a fully equipped computer lab to the Code Compass Foundation in Mbuya, Nakawa Division.
The handover event, held Friday, also marked the graduation of learners from the MTN Skills Academy and coincided with International Girls in ICT Day.
Valued at UGX 65 million, the donation includes 10 brand-new computers, a power backup inverter system, and one year of unlimited internet access. The facility aims to offer hundreds of young Ugandans—especially girls—critical training in coding, digital literacy, and personal development.
Speaking at the ceremony, MTN Foundation’s Senior Manager Brian Mbasa stressed the importance of digital access for Uganda’s future.
“We at MTN Uganda believe that access to digital tools unlocks a world of possibilities, opportunities, and hope for our youth,” Mbasa said.
He pointed out that with Uganda having one of the youngest populations globally, excluding young people from the digital economy would be a grave mistake.
The Code Compass Foundation is among six centers benefiting from MTN Uganda’s UGX 390 million Digital Access Project.
Other beneficiaries include Tunaweza Foundation in Nyanama, Revival Girls High School in Mbarara, St. Catherine Girls in Kazo, St. Joseph’s Seminary in Nyenga, and the soon-to-be-launched lab at St. John’s Secondary School in Sheema.
Through these hubs, MTN Uganda is creating a national ecosystem of digital inclusion and empowerment. Learners at these centers will also have access to the MTN Skills Academy, an online platform offering courses in technology, entrepreneurship, and essential life skills.
Importantly, the initiative goes beyond technical training. MTN Uganda also supports programs focusing on mental health and emotional resilience.
Working with Strong Minds, the Code Compass Foundation integrates wellness sessions to equip learners not just with skills but also with the strength to thrive.
“We understand that thriving in the digital world requires not just technical skills but emotional resilience. That’s why we’re proud to support programs that nurture both head and heart,” Mbasa added.
This move fits squarely into MTN Uganda’s broader Ambition 2025 Strategy, which champions inclusive digital and financial solutions across Uganda. It also aligns with national initiatives like Vision 2040, the National Development Plan III, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Maria Angella Aboyo, Founder of Code Compass Foundation, expressed deep gratitude to MTN Uganda for their partnership.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to MTN Uganda for joining us in celebrating this milestone and for their generous donation of a fully equipped ICT lab,” she said.
Aboyo emphasized that the new lab will serve as a safe, inspiring space where students—especially girls—can gain hands-on skills in coding, robotics, AI, and web development.
Since 2015, MTN Uganda has established 63 ICT labs nationwide, including nine at technical institutes, reinforcing its deep, long-term commitment to education and digital inclusion.
MTN Uganda officials also called for stronger collaboration between government, civil society, and the private sector to ensure Uganda’s young generation is ready for the digital world of tomorrow.
