The Mobile Solar Computer Classroom

Using solar-powered computers to teach computer skills in rural Uganda
2014 SEED Africa Award; European Union
Green Technologies
Mukono
Uganda

Mobile Solar Computer Classroom brings all the equipment needed to provide lessons on computer skills to schools and libraries, offering a digital literacy curriculum delivered over the course of two years. The institutions pay a small fee for the training sessions, the majority of the funding comes from awards, partnerships and grants. 

The enterprise has two modified all-terrain vehicles equipped with solar panels, laptops, an internet router, a tent, tables and chairs. In using solar energy, it raises awareness of the benefits and availability of solar devices. Every year, the Mobile Solar Computer Classroom equips 5,000 students, 100 teachers and 500 community members with competitive computer skills. While doing this, it also educates its trainees in the benefits of using solar power.

Eco-Inclusive Impacts
Every year, the classroom equips 5,000 students, 100 teachers and 500 community members with competitive computer skills. It also educates its trainees in the benefits of using solar power and provides affordable lessons so trainees build the skills to enter workforces.
  • Equipping 5,000 students, 100 teachers and 500 community members with competitive computer skills each year.
  • Increasing the quality of education and computer literacy in rural communities, and building a skilled workforce for the future. 
  • Demonstrating that solar power can be used in communities without reliable access to electricity.
  • Encouraging the use of solar power, especially as an alternative energy source for things like lamps in schools, which are normally fuelled by kerosene.
  • Providing the opportunity for lower socio-economic communities to gain computer skills they otherwise would not be able to afford.
  • Building the foundations of a computer services industry in Uganda.

Partners

The Mobile Solar Computer Classroom is helping bridge the digital divide in Uganda by making computer skills accessible, affordable, and relevant to rural schools and community libraries in Uganda. The enterprise uses solar-powered computers – housed in modified SUV vehicles fitted with solar panels – to bring its technology to its trainees. A digital literacy curriculum is delivered to each participating venue over the course of two years.

Maendeleo Foundation, a Ugandan non-profit organisation, owns and implements the Mobile Solar Computer Classroom project. It first piloted the idea in 2008.

Uganda Rural Literacy & Community Development Association helps the enterprise connect with and support libraries and schools in the West Nile Region that are in need of computer training.

Kikandwa Rural Community Development Organisation supports the enterprise in fundraising and sponsoring schools that cannot afford the services. They also contribute to the curriculum development and designing training delivery.