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Government and ELCOME SL Ltd. Collaborate to Bridge the Digital Divide in Higher Education
The Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL), through the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation (MoCTI) and the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), has signed a strategic agreement with ELCOME SL Ltd. to provide high-speed internet connectivity to 12 public and private universities. This initiative, powered by Starlink, marks a significant step toward enhancing digital access for students. It will help in advancing the country’s education and innovation landscape.
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Bridging the Digital Divide in Education
Currently, internet access in Sierra Leone’s educational institutions remains limited. Only a small percentage of schools have reliable connectivity. To address this challenge, the government has been actively working on initiatives like “Giga,” a global program launched in partnership with UNICEF and the Directorate of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), which aims to connect all schools to the internet.
Despite these efforts, infrastructure limitations and affordability challenges have slowed progress. However, the MoCTI’s latest collaboration with ELCOME SL Ltd. is expected to accelerate digital transformation in universities, ensuring students have the necessary tools to compete in the digital age.
Minister Salima Bah: Internet Access is a Right, Not a Luxury
Minister of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, Salima Bah, emphasized the critical need for internet access in higher education:
“For students in universities, who are being prepared to lead in a digital world, access to the internet is essential. Without it, their growth and opportunities are limited.”
She further highlighted Sierra Leone’s commitment to innovation and digital inclusion, noting that Starlink’s entry into the market has spurred competition among service providers, fostering new ideas and job creation.
“Sierra Leone, a nation that welcomes innovation, opened its doors to Starlink, knowing it would spark new ideas and create jobs. Today, three local companies are providing Starlink services, each with its own unique approach.”
Next Steps: Expanding Connectivity Beyond Universities
While the first phase focuses on universities, the government plans to extend connectivity to vocational schools in the next phase. This will ensure broader access to digital resources within the education community.
The initiative aligns with Sierra Leone’s National Broadband Strategy (2023-2028), which seeks to transform the country into a knowledge-based society with nationwide broadband connectivity. Additionally, it supports the National Digital Development Policy (NDDP), approved in 2021, which aims to position Sierra Leone as an inclusive digital economy and society.
The Road Ahead: A Digitally Empowered Sierra Leone
Stakeholders affirmed that Sierra Leone is taking bold steps toward a connected future where the internet is a basic right, not a privilege. Bah believes the country is advancing this theme by partnering with leading technology providers and investing in digital infrastructure.
With initiatives like these, Sierra Leone is well on its way to bridging the digital divide. Most importantly, is is empowering students, and driving economic growth through digital transformation.
