Staff Reporter
THE Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, recently donated laptops, internet subscriptions, and sanitary pads to selected schools, technology hubs, and e-villages across the country, with a total value of N$320,000.00.
“Education and technology are powerful engines for progress and economic development. By providing laptops, we aim to close the digital gap, spark innovation, and equip Namibian youth with the tools needed to thrive in a digital world,” said CRAN’s Chief Executive Officer, Emilia Nghikembua.
Mufaro Nesongano, CRAN’s Executive of Communication and Consumer Relations, disclosed that the schools chosen to receive laptops include Martin Ndumba Secondary School, Kanorombwe Combined School, and Kippi George Primary School, all located in the Kavango East Region.
PICTURED: Middle- Mrs. Emilia Nghikembua (CRAN CEO), Hon. Dino Ballotti Deputy Minister (MEIYSAC) flanked by CRAN and MEIYSAC Staff Members
He further revealed that two schools in the Omaheke Region — Epako Junior Secondary School and Epukiro Post 3 Junior Secondary School — were selected to receive sanitary pads valued at N\$14,000.
Nesongano also disclosed that CRAN has equipped public libraries in remote areas with computers and internet access, covering installation and subscription fees for two years. Each site will have registered computers and a minimum internet speed of 30 Mbps, with bandwidth adjusted according to demand during peak periods.
The libraries benefiting from this initiative include Gibeon Public Library in the Hardap Region, Koes Public Library in the //Kharas Region, Gochas Public Library in the Hardap Region, and Aroab Public Library in the //Kharas Region.
Dino Ballotti, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, expressed his appreciation for CRAN’s decision to collaborate with the Ministry in efforts to keep the girl child in school and to promote digital literacy through the donation of laptops, as well as the establishment of Tech Hubs and e-Villages.
“This is a smart and strategic partnership, where the real beneficiaries are our young people. CRAN is an ICT regulator, and while it is not mandated to provide sanitary products, its willingness to respond to this critical need reflects a deep commitment not only to education and innovation, but also to the health and well-being of our learners,” Ballotti added.
