MTN Uganda and Centenary Technology Services (Cente-Tech) have partnered to promote equity and inclusivity in basic services, with a focus on empowering disadvantaged communities, particularly women, youth, and the rural poor. During a recent meeting, Cente-Tech’s Chief Technology Officer, Peter Kahiigi, and MTN Uganda’s CEO, Sylvia Mulinge, agreed to leverage technology to make basic services more accessible and inclusive. They recognized the importance of access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and financial services in driving inclusive growth and development.
In a joint address to the media, MTN Uganda and Cente-Tech pledged to work together to create innovative solutions that use technology to drive inclusive growth and development. They committed to sharing expertise, resources, and technology to achieve their shared goals.
“Technology has the potential to transform lives and communities, but it’s only effective if it’s accessible and inclusive,” said Peter Kahiigi, Chief Technology Officer, Centenary Technology Services.
“We’re thrilled to partner with MTN Uganda to create a new era of innovation and growth that benefits everyone, especially those who have been left behind,” Peter added.
Commenting during the event, MTN’s CEO Sylvia Mulinge said, ‘We believe that digital technology has the power to bridge the gap between the haves and have nots in our nation. By providing access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, we can create a more equitable society for all. As MTN, we are committed to making bold steps forward in this area and using our resources to create a more connected and inclusive Uganda.’
Cente-Tech is currently implementing an advanced digital skilling program, MTN ACE Tech, on behalf of MTN Uganda, which is designed to equip citizens with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age. The program covers topics such as coding, data analysis, digital marketing, cybersecurity, readiness for venture capital pitching, and business acceleration.
The goal of the program is to help citizens develop the skills they need to create jobs, succeed in the digital economy, and drive innovation and growth in their communities. The program has already generated considerable interest among youth-owned businesses, and participants will graduate in July 2023. By investing in digital skilling programs, MTN and Cente-Tech are providing young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the 21st-century workforce.
“The digital age presents a tremendous opportunity for Uganda’s youth to secure gainful employment and improve their livelihoods. As technology continues to transform the way we live and work, digital skills are becoming increasingly vital in the job market,” said Sylvia Mulinge, CEO, MTN Uganda.
“By investing in digital skilling programs, we are equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed in the digital economy and to drive innovation and growth in their communities,” she added.
Digital skilling is a sustainable effort to resolve unemployment, as it can be delivered at scale with relatively low overheads. Unlike traditional job creation efforts that may require significant resources and infrastructure, digital skilling enables entities like MTN and Cente-Tech to train a large number of young people and enable them to create their job opportunities in the digital economy. By investing in programs that provide young people with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the digital age, MTN and Cente-Tech can help to build a more prosperous and equitable future for all Ugandans.
