About the Campaign
Technology Hubs for Zimbabwe’s Underserved Schools: Bridging the Digital Divide
Campaign Overview
Our initiative aims to establish technology hubs in Zimbabwe’s underserved communities and public schools without computer labs. We plan to convert shipping containers into fully-equipped computer labs powered by solar energy, providing reliable internet connectivity and creating sustainable digital learning environments for children who currently have no access to technology education.
The Need
In Zimbabwe, many rural and underserved schools lack basic computer facilities, leaving thousands of students without the digital skills necessary for future success. As of April 2025, while 50% of Zimbabweans have internet access (primarily through mobile devices), a persistent rural-urban digital divide exists. Many public schools have:
- No dedicated computer labs
- Limited or no access to technology education
- Unreliable electricity that prevents consistent learning
- No internet connectivity
- Teachers with minimal ICT training
Without intervention, these students will continue to fall behind in an increasingly digital world, limiting their future educational and employment opportunities.
Our Solution
We will establish sustainable technology hubs by:
- Converting shipping containers into modern computer labs – durable, secure, and cost-effective spaces that can be deployed even in remote locations
- Installing solar power systems for 24/7 reliable electricity independent of the grid
- Providing reliable internet connectivity through appropriate technology for each location
- Equipping each hub with computers, tablets, and educational software appropriate for different age groups
- Training local teachers to integrate technology into their teaching across all subjects
Budget Breakdown ($30,000)
Infrastructure ($15,000)
- Shipping containers and conversion: $8,000
- Solar power system installation: $5,000
- Small admin office setup: $2,000
Technology & Equipment ($10,000)
- Computers and tablets: $6,000
- Networking equipment: $1,500
- Educational software and resources: $1,500
- Furniture and ergonomic setups: $1,000
Connectivity & Operations ($5,000)
- Internet connectivity setup: $2,000
- First year of internet service: $1,500
- Teacher training materials: $1,000
- Maintenance fund: $500
Impact
Each technology hub will directly impact:
- 500+ students annually with hands-on technology access
- 10-15 teachers through ICT skills development
- Entire communities through improved digital literacy
This translates to:
- Improved digital literacy and computer skills
- Enhanced learning across all subjects through technology integration
- Better preparation for higher education and employment opportunities
- Increased community access to digital resources
Alignment with Existing Initiatives
Our project aligns with several successful technology education initiatives in Zimbabwe:
- Uncommon’s Technology Training: Similar to Uncommon, which provides technology training and computer programming classes to young adults and children in Zimbabwe, our hubs will focus on practical skills development.
- Teacher Training Projects: Building on the model of IT Teacher Training Projects in Zimbabwe and Zambia that aim to improve digital skills of teachers and students, our initiative will include teacher development components.
- Education Matters: Like Education Matters, which provides bright children in Zimbabwe with skills to become tomorrow’s leaders and innovators, our technology hubs will focus on creating opportunities for children who would otherwise have no access to technology education.
Sustainability Plan
To ensure long-term sustainability:
- Solar Power: 24/7 power supply independent of unreliable grid electricity
- Community Ownership: Local stakeholders will be involved in management
- Teacher Development: Training local educators ensures knowledge transfer
- Maintenance Training: Local technical support personnel will be trained
- Potential Income Generation: The hubs can offer paid services to local businesses during off-hours
Timeline
Phase 1 (Months 1-3)
- Purchase and begin conversion of shipping containers
- Procure initial equipment
- Identify and secure locations
Phase 2 (Months 4-6)
- Complete container conversion
- Install solar systems and internet connectivity
- Set up computer equipment and software
Phase 3 (Months 7-9)
- Train teachers and technical support staff
- Develop curriculum integration plans
- Launch the first technology hub
Phase 4 (Months 10-12)
- Monitor and evaluate initial impact
- Make necessary adjustments
- Plan for expansion to additional locations
Why Support This Campaign?
- Your contribution will help bridge the digital divide in Zimbabwe by:
- Creating sustainable technology access points in communities that currently have none
- Empowering the next generation with essential digital skills
- Supporting teacher development in technology integration
- Building infrastructure that will serve communities for years to come
- Creating a replicable model that can be scaled to other underserved areas
Join us in empowering Zimbabwe’s children with the technology skills they need for the future. Every dollar contributed brings us closer to bridging the digital divide and creating opportunities for thousands of students in underserved communities.