Today, over 150 tablets were distributed to residents of Kalungu District by the Uganda Communications Commission as part of the Universal Service and Access Fund’s (UCUSAF) ongoing mission to enhance digital inclusion and community empowerment. The tablets will provide the recipients with access to essential online resources, education, and market opportunities, helping bridge the digital divide and promote socio-economic development in the communities.
The Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF) was established in 2001 by UCC as outlined in the Uganda Communications Act of 1997. UCUSAF has evolved with a broader mission of achieving digital inclusivity beyond rural and urban demographics. UCUSAF is currently implementing its 4th strategic cycle, a strategy that seeks to achieve “Digital Inclusivity through sustainable interventions and impactful collaborations”.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde who was the Guest of Honor at the giveaway ceremony, emphasized the significance of UCUSAF’s initiatives in ensuring that all communities benefit from the digital age. She emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to bridging the digital divide across the country by distributing educational devices, one household at a time.
Over 19,000 devices have so far been distributed to 120 villages across the country with plans to reach more.
James Beronda, the Director of UCUSAF at UCC highlighted that the devices are equipped with hard covers and solar panels to ensure durability and accessibility, even in areas without electricity. With pre-installed SIM cards providing six months of data, this is to ensure connectivity and continued learning.
Registration is carried out through local LC1 chairpersons to ensure equitable distribution to eligible households. Parents and communities were encouraged to safeguard the devices and take advantage of training sessions and community WhatsApp groups to enhance device usage and learning outcomes.
