Orange Maroc Expands Digital Education Initiative to 55 Rural Schools

Thursday 05 September 2024 - 19:29

Orange Maroc is taking a significant step forward in bridging the digital divide in education. The company has announced a major expansion of its "Digital Schools" program, aimed at integrating digital technology into primary schools in rural areas across the country.

In partnership with the Ministry of National Education, Preschool Education, and Sports, Orange Maroc will extend its digital education initiative to 55 new primary schools in rural regions. This expansion is set to benefit approximately 17,000 students across 11 cities, including Haouz, Al Hoceima, Berkane, Fahs-Anjra, Tétouan, Nador, Tangier-Assilah, Guelmim, and Laâyoune.

Hind LFal, Secretary General of Orange Maroc, emphasized the program's core objective: "Through the Digital Schools program, we aim to universalize access to digital technologies in rural primary schools, providing optimal and equal learning conditions for all students, regardless of their environment."

The initiative goes beyond merely providing hardware. It encompasses a comprehensive approach to digital education, offering equipment, applications, and digital content tailored for primary school students in rural settings. This holistic strategy aligns with Morocco's broader goals for digital transformation in education.

Since its inception in 2022, the Digital Schools program has already made significant strides. It has successfully digitized 16 rural schools in various regions, including Ouezzane, Taourirt, Sidi Bennour, Témara-Skhirate, and Dakhla. More than 4,000 students have benefited from the program, with 30 teachers receiving specialized training to effectively integrate digital tools into their teaching methods.

The impact of this initiative extends beyond Morocco's borders. The Digital Schools program is currently operational in 17 African countries, reaching over 1,400 schools and benefiting more than 500,000 students across the continent. This wide-reaching approach underscores Orange's commitment to fostering digital literacy and educational equity on a pan-African scale.

El Fal further highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership with the Ministry of Education, stating, "Our partnership with the Ministry of National Education is a true reflection of our commitment as a company to support the country's journey towards achieving digital transformation in Moroccan schools."

By focusing on rural areas, the program addresses a critical gap in educational resources between urban and rural communities. It aims to ensure that geographical location does not hinder a student's access to modern educational tools and opportunities.

As Morocco continues to prioritize digital transformation across various sectors, initiatives like the Digital Schools program play a crucial role in preparing the next generation for a technology-driven future. By equipping young learners with digital skills from an early age, Orange Morocco is contributing to the long-term digital literacy and competitiveness of the country's workforce.

The expansion of this program marks a significant milestone in Morocco's journey towards comprehensive digital education. As more rural schools gain access to these resources, the potential for innovative teaching methods and enhanced learning experiences grows, promising a brighter, more connected future for Morocco's youth.