Sunil Taldar, “Our commitment extends beyond providing connectivity. We are investing in education infrastructure because we believe every child deserves access to a quality learning environment.”
By Gibson Zulu,
Airtel Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainability, digital inclusion and socio-economic transformation across Zambia, highlighting the company’s investments in education, connectivity, entrepreneurship and environmental responsibility.
Speaking during a media roundtable in Lusaka, Airtel Africa Group Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said the company’s 2025/26 Sustainability Report reflects its determination to create lasting impact by expanding access to digital opportunities and empowering communities.
“Through these integrated efforts, we continue to deliver measurable impact while supporting Zambia’s broader development priorities.” Said Mr. Taldar.
The CEO further indicated that, Airtel Zambia has continued to play a critical role in narrowing the country’s digital divide through strategic partnerships and community-focused programmes such as the school adoption programme. St. Monica Secondary school in Matero constituency, being one of the beneficiary.
He noted that the company’s partnership with UNICEF has connected 300 schools to the internet, benefiting more than two hundred and ninenty two thousand learners while equipping five thousand one hundred and eight nine teachers with digital tools and learning platforms.
Hussam Baday, Airtel Zambia Managing director, added that, the initiative has significantly improved access to quality education and information, particularly in underserved communities.
“Beyond connectivity, Airtel Zambia has invested in improving learning environments through its school adoption programme, ” Baday emphasized.
According to Mr. Taldar, the company adopted five schools over the past year in Mufulira, Chipata, Solwezi, Mansa and Mongu, providing classroom blocks, computer laboratories, internet connectivity and improved sanitation facilities.
Mr. Taldar disclosed that two schools had already been successfully handed over in Chipata and Solwezi, with the interventions contributing to improved learning conditions and increased learner enrolment.
“Our sustainability agenda is anchored on expanding access to connectivity, empowering communities through digital skills, supporting entrepreneurship and promoting responsible environmental practices.” Taldar said.
The Airtel Africa CEO also highlighted the company’s contribution to entrepreneurship and youth empowerment through the ZICTA Innovation Challenge.
He claimed that the initiative has trained more than 500 innovators, supported the commercialisation of over 30 start-ups, and facilitated the creation of more than 200 direct jobs. However, Zambia Reports was not able to verify and fack-check this claim at the time of publication.
Equally Mr. Taldar disclosed that Airtel Zambia will roll out a scholarship programme to support students pursuing key fields of study such as technology, computer science, information and communication technology (ICT), engineering, and other related disciplines.
The scholarships will be offered to deserving students enrolled at public universities across the country. He said the initiative is aimed at expanding access to higher education while helping develop the skilled workforce needed to drive Zambia’s digital transformation.
Mr. Taldar further stressed that these initiatives are strengthening Zambia’s innovation ecosystem while creating opportunities for young people to participate meaningfully in the digital economy.
Mr. Taldar, reaffirmed Airtel Africa’s commitment to scaling up its sustainability programmes through stronger partnerships that promote inclusive growth across the continent.
“We remain committed to strengthening partnerships that drive inclusive growth, ensuring that more individuals and communities benefit from the opportunities