African-based entrepreneurs and innovators will benefit from a 20 million shillings (about 200,000 U.S. dollars) fund to promote remote learning in the continent during the COVID-19 pandemic era.
The UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) says that 89 percent of learners in Sub-Saharan Africa have no access to a computer, 82 percent have no internet access and around 56 million learners live outside mobile networks, thus complicating their ability to study remotely.
Al Gurg said that investments in high-speed internet connection and capacity building for tutors and learners is key to improve distance learning in Africa amid closure of schools linked to COVID-19 pandemic.
“The COVID-19 pandemic could be seen as a tipping point to a digital transition in the publishing industry in Africa,” said Al Gurg.
“We look forward to witnessing a high turnout among entrepreneurs and innovators in Africa along with their unique solutions and ideas in support of the publishing industry,” he added.
