MTN unveils Online School platform
by TINTSWALO BALOYI
JOHANNESBURG – MTN South Africa has launched its Online School initiative to address learning needs of children and close the digital divide in accessing quality education among local youths.
Government has endorsed the innovation, which is a free online portal providing a digital curriculum for grades R (Reception Year) to 12.
The solution is aimed at increasing access to curriculum-aligned educational content, as endorsed and provided by the Department of Basic Education and for Learners with Special Education Needs.
The full content library will be added to the platform and made available over a period of three years, focusing on key subjects.
Angie Motshekga, the Minister of Basic Education, said MTN’s initiative was in line with government’s vision of the schooling sector anchored in the National Development Plan (NDP).
“The MTN Online School is a fit for purpose digital tool to take our basic education to the next level. The online portal is agile, innovative and modern,” she said.
Motshekga lauded the online school as a significant leap forward for education and ushering in positive change for communities across South Africa.
The solution has been developed in partnership with the education department and the National Education Collaboration Trust.
Jacqui O’Sullivan, MTN SA’s Executive for Corporate Affairs, said the company was investing in technology, digital innovation and financial solutions aimed at enhancing lives and creating better outcomes for all.
She said the new e-learning portal would be underpinned by continuous innovation.
“It also exemplifies our ambition to accelerate digital transformation through building exciting, innovative and solution-oriented platform businesses in South Africa,” O’Sullivan said.
The Online School is in line with MTN Group’s over-arching “Ambition 2025” strategy to become Africa’s leading provider of digital solutions.
“The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the urgent need In South Africa for accessible and approved online curricula. We are delighted to deliver the MTN Online School, to do just that,” said MTN SA CEO, Godfrey Motsa.
The integrated online educational portal is supported and housed on the MTN network. It is zero data-rated for MTN customers.
– CAJ News
