The COVID-19 pandemic has irrevocably changed the education landscape. With classrooms shut down and social distancing becoming the norm, the transition to digital education became a matter of survival for schools around the world. However, this shift is not merely a temporary response to a crisis; it presents a vital opportunity to reshape education for the future.

The Liaison Office of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Addis Ababa, in partnership with Huawei, has provided Ethiopian schools with a vital technology boost. On Thursday, December 14, representatives from both organizations handed over IT equipment to the Ethiopian Ministry of Education and regional education offices.

The delivery includes 480 tablets, 48 laptops, 48 access points, and 24 smartboards. This equipment is part of the TeOSS Project (Schools Open to All through Technology), a joint initiative aimed at bridging the gap between school and home learning and ensuring quality education for all.

"Beyond the classroom, the TeOSS project is a catalyst for innovation and economic growth," said Rita Bissoonauth, Director of UNESCO's Liaison Office in Addis Ababa. "By equipping schools with ICT facilities, we are empowering students to shape Ethiopia's future. Congratulations to UNESCO and Huawei for leading the charge," she added.

The $300,000 investment will equip 24 secondary schools across Ethiopia, providing students and teachers with essential tools to enhance their learning experiences. The TeOSS project, supported by the Huawei Trust Fund, aims to build technology-based, crisis-resilient school systems. This includes facilitating continuity and quality of learning in both normal and crisis situations, a crucial factor in Ethiopia's educational landscape.

Aligned with UNESCO's Priority Africa strategy, the TeOSS project extends its reach beyond Ethiopia. Sub-Saharan African countries like Ghana and Egypt are also participating in the initiative, with the shared goal of utilizing technology as a driving force for quality education and digital development opportunities.

In Ethiopia, the TeOSS project is focusing on building robust ICT infrastructure in pilot schools. This includes connecting schools, setting up a learning management system, and integrating a dedicated teacher training platform. 

Samira Njoya