Camara Education & Lenovo Tech for All Project
Empowering Education in Zambia: The Impact of Digital Learning Centres and ICT Clubs
Introduction
About Camara Education
Camara Education Ltd is a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving educational outcomes for disadvantaged students in Africa through access to technology. With a special emphasis on empowering young women, Camara supports schools by recycling surplus IT equipment, establishing digital learning centres, and providing extensive training for teachers and school leaders. Since 2005, Camara has installed over 143,700 computers, trained 114,600 teachers, and reached over 4.8 million students.
About Lenovo Corporate Philanthropy
Lenovo, a global leader in PC and smart device manufacturing, emphasises corporate social responsibility, particularly in advancing digital equity and STEM education. Through Lenovo Foundation initiatives, the company enhances opportunities in underrepresented communities, supporting access to technology and skills training that have long-term social impacts.
The Lenovo Tech for All Program
In 2023, Lenovo expanded its support of Camara’s “Tech for All” initiative, funding 10 new schools in Zambia and supporting 6 schools from a 2022 phase. Lenovo provided 260 desktops, 20 laptops, and 10 projectors, allowing Camara to establish modern, networked computer labs in each school. Lenovo’s support extended to 181 teachers and 126 school leaders, who received comprehensive ICT SkillBuilder and Educational Leadership training.
Key Statistics:
- Schools Supported: 10 new schools in 2023; 6 schools from 2022
- Direct Student Beneficiaries: 6,596 in computer studies classes; 7,825 students overall
- Pass Rate: 97% on Junior Secondary Grade 9 exams in Computer Studies, with girls representing nearly 53% of the students who passed
- Educator Development: 307 teachers and school leaders trained
STEM Engagement: ICT clubs established to deepen students’ digital literacy and interest in STEM
Project Goals
The Tech for All project aims to improve educational quality through technology access, with specific objectives including:
- Establishing networked computer labs in the 10 newly supported schools.
- Delivering Lenovo devices and equipment to each lab.
- Training a targeted number of educators and leaders in each school.
- Providing thousands of students with digital skills.
- Monitoring student performance in the national Grade 9 computer studies examination.
Outcomes Achieved
The Lenovo Tech for All project has delivered impressive outcomes, fundamentally changing educational access and performance in Zambia:
- Enhanced Student Access: 16,500 students now benefit from technology-enhanced learning environments.
- High Examination Pass Rates: 97% of Grade 9 students passed computer studies, significantly above national averages, with girls representing 53% of those passing.
- Sustainability and STEM Engagement: ICT clubs were set up to promote ongoing digital literacy and career interests in STEM, particularly for young women.
Long-term Teacher Support: Teachers and school leaders continue to receive refresher training to sustain and build upon ICT integration in teaching.
Challenges and Adaptations
Zambia’s reliance on hydroelectric power has introduced a critical challenge: frequent load shedding due to droughts. Schools adapted by operating labs during non-school hours and investigating alternative power solutions like generators, underscoring their commitment to maximising student access despite infrastructure limitations.
The Positive Impact of Partnership on Zambia’s Educational Landscape
- Brand Visibility: Lenovo and Camara gained increased brand visibility and credibility in Zambia’s education sector.
- Corporate Social Responsibility: The partnership allowed Lenovo to demonstrate its commitment to educational equity and digital inclusion, reinforcing its reputation in CSR.
Product Exposure and Community Impact: Lenovo showcased its technology solutions in real-world educational settings, enhancing adoption potential in schools while strengthening the local education system.
Future Prospects
As Zambia faces an accelerating digital transformation, the Lenovo Tech for All project plays a vital role in bridging the digital divide, preparing students for technology-driven careers. In 2024, Lenovo and Camara plan to expand the project to support an additional three schools and one university-based e-learning centre at the University of Zambia.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to increase educational quality in Zambia, equipping students with the digital literacy needed for future opportunities and supporting Lenovo’s vision of digital inclusivity.
