The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN), as part of its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiative, has donated laptops and sanitary pads to selected schools, technology hubs, and e-villages across the country.
The donation done through the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts & Culture was handed over on 11 June 2025 in Windhoek, valued at N$320,000.
CRAN’s Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Emilia Nghikembua, stated that the donation to the ministry represents more than the provision of resources but rather it is a testament to CRAN’s unwavering commitment to education, youth empowerment, and social inclusion.
“Education and technology are powerful engines for progress and economic development. By providing laptops, we aim to close the digital gap, spark innovation, and equip Namibian youth with the tools needed to thrive in a digital world,” said Mrs. Nghikembua.
CRAN identified three schools in the Kavango East Region to receive laptops, which are Martin Ndumba Secondary School, Kanorombwe Combined School, and Kippi George Primary School.
The laptops will enhance digital literacy, enabling learners to participate in virtual classrooms, access online educational content, and gain essential 21st century skills for the evolving job market.
In addition to supporting digital access, CRAN also committed to addressing menstrual health, a key barrier to girls’ school attendance.
Through the donation of sanitary pads valued at N$14,000, the Authority aims to promote dignity, eliminate stigma, and ensure that girls remain in school throughout the academic year.
The two beneficiary schools in the Omaheke Region are Epako Junior Secondary School and Epukiro Post 3 Junior Secondary School.
Mrs. Nghikembua reiterated that the initiative is aligned with CRAN’s broader strategy of promoting gender equality and empowering young women.
“No girl should have to choose between her education and her health. This initiative ensures that our girls stay in school, confident and supported.”
Furthermore, CRAN is advancing its Tech Hubs and e-Villages Initiative, which seeks to equip public libraries in remote areas with computers and internet connectivity. This project not only enhances educational access for students but also serves the broader community.
The selected libraries for the 2025/2026 financial year include Gibeon Public Library (Hardap Region), Koes Public Library (!Karas Region), Gochas Public Library (Hardap Region and Aroab Public Library (!Karas Region).
Each site will be equipped with registered computers and receive a minimum internet speed of 30 Mbps, with bandwidth adjusted based on usage to accommodate peak demand.
CRAN will cover internet installation and subscription costs for a period of 24 months.
Mr. Dino Ballotti, the Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, commended CRAN for its impactful donation, describing it as a commendable initiative that demonstrates true partnership and social responsibility.
He expressed his appreciation for CRAN’s decision to collaborate with the Ministry in efforts to keep the girl child in school and to promote digital literacy through the donation of laptops, as well as the establishment of Tech Hubs and e-Villages.
“This is a smart and strategic partnership, where the real beneficiaries are our young people,” said Ballotti.
“CRAN is an ICT regulator, and while it is not mandated to provide sanitary products, its willingness to respond to this critical need reflects a deep commitment not only to education and innovation, but also to the health and well-being of our learners.”
In the photo: Mrs Emilia Nghikembua and Mr Dino Ballotti with staff from their institutions during the donation handover.
