CLOSE THE TECH GAP.

There is Digital divide—the unequal access to technology and digital skills to underserved schools in the most developing countries is about 3/4 of pupils and students who are not imparted or aware of Digital skills in learning and even in their lifetime journey. Most of  them are having nothing to do after school period/ graduation since there are having no life tactics that stand as core for their survival,  this keeps increasing the gap between the have and the have-nots and hinder the efforts of the World to Quality Education . A Lack of access to technology and engaging content about the use of digital resources in provision of Comprehensive digital Education threatening proficiency learning outcomes as it is explained below 

1. Lack of access to Digital Literacy

    - Many students, especially in underserved communities, lack basic digital literacy skills. They struggle with using computers, navigating the internet, and understanding software.
    - Without these skills, they face barriers in education, employment, and daily life.

2. Limited Access to Technology:
    - Traditional computer labs are scarce, and not all students have access to desktop computers.
    - Mobile phones, however, are widespread. By harnessing mobile technology, your solution bridges the gap and democratizes access to learning.

3. Inequitable Opportunities
    - Students from marginalized backgrounds often miss out on opportunities due to their limited exposure to technology.
    Our solution ensures that all students, regardless of their socio-economic status, can acquire essential digital skills.

4. Empowerment and Poverty Alleviation
 - By teaching practical skills like graphic design, film making, and AI, you empower students to create, innovate, and explore career paths.
    - These skills enhance employability and contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty.

In summary, our solution addresses the digital divide by providing accessible, holistic, and impactful ICT education through mobile devices.

Solution Summary: Bridging the Digital Divide through Mobile ICT Education . We are using Computer Software and Mobile application technology to make it applicable into real World. 

Our solution aims to eliminate digital illiteracy by providing comprehensive digital education to underserved secondary schools. And equipping them with essential skills for the digital age, we foster innovation, critical thinking, and career development opportunities. Here are the key components:

1. Mobile ICT Studies Program:

    - We offer a supportive digital education program that bridges the technological gap, especially in less developed countries.

    - Students gain proficiency in using various digital tools for communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.

2. Real-World Application:

    - Our movement transforms bookish education into practical application.

    - Students and teachers learn to apply their knowledge in areas like e-commerce and digital marketing, promoting products and services effectively.

3. Empowering Agriculture Students:

    - Expertise in digital education empowers students to innovate.

    - For instance, agriculture students use modern technology to plant and preserve fruit trees. Over time, they generate capital by selling the fruits, improving their welfare.

4. Collaboration with Government:

    - We collaborate with local governments to identify digitally underserved students and teachers 

    - A specific timetable ensures consistent learning sessions, with skilled computer teams visiting schools.

5. Essential Computer Skills:

    - We teach practical skills such as MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, graphics, and AI technology.

    - These skills enhance employability and empower students.

6. Mobile Digital Truck:

    - To reach remote schools efficiently, we utilize a mobile digital truck.

    - This minimizes costs and ensures accessibility.

7. Optimal Learning Environment:

    - Conducive learning environments include well-ventilated computer rooms with natural light and electricity.

    - Noise-blocking headphones, smart alarms, and calendars enhance the learning experience and make it more meaningful to learners 

8. Tech Hub for Street Youth and Adult:

    - Beyond schools, we establish an ICT studies hub for street youth and adults.

    - Lifelong learning opportunities empower the broader community.

9. Interschool Technological Innovation Competition:

    - At the program's end, students participate in an innovation competition.

    - Winners receive sponsorship to support their entrepreneurial visions.

In summary, our solution combines education, empowerment, and community impact, ensuring that digital literacy becomes a catalyst for positive change.

Close The Tech Gap focus on serving  the underserved secondary schools students by providing  Mobile ICT training program which helps them  to eliminate Digital illiteracy and make them to thrive in both their Communities and Complex World and being able to access Digital tools and various computer softwares , mobile applications and artificial intelligence in various aspects like creative industries economy, science ,health and entertainment hence open a way  to compete in the technological world. 

Irene Sanga a leading Woman in Creativity, a young inborn skilled leader , a social ambassador and a professional bachelor Degree teacher who is always ready to solve different arise matters within community by collaborating with society/ community members, Groups, NGos and the government so as to change and increase  Social welfare in the Society. My belief "People become better off when one of its members becomes better off" is paving me a one step ahead everyday to deal my communities. It is written in Bible "For the body does not consist of one member but of many" On contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,  and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty. Same to the Government body, the existence of government pillars indicates responsibility of every citizen from family level upwards .This strengthen my capacity to stand firmly in whatever challenges comes into my ways and community members while finding a better way to deal with and gives a sense of beautiful peace within my society. 

With about 8 years of experience in learning and teaching I'm obsessed with leveling the teaching field and become aware of so many challenges learners and teachers are facing in learning process when Embarked on teaching journey. while conducting my research on " Social-economic and technical problems facing New government day schools" in Mwanza Region at Nyamagana District" I found a lot of constraints to Quality Education including illiteracy in the use of technology that students are facing being as one of the major cause of backwardness and poor performance in studies. that pressured my critical thinking on how to over come the situation. My team and I are committed under minimum supervision to mobilize, reach and implement ICT Mobile training program to underserved secondary schools . we are at the bgining of our program and of-course we see how students know nothing about computer operation and they are so exciting and anxious to operate computer programs .

I'm a Chief Executive coordinator who is ready to row the boat gently down the stream for better learning outcomes in digital use since I have been a leader and im familiar  with variety of approaches  of policies of administration, management and leadership skills. To date I'm a Regional leader to some organizations,with  positives great contribution that raise many successfully activities. I work with New Vision Foundation,  Akili Platform Tanzania,  TAWEN TANZANIA,  WANAWAKE NA SAMIA TANZANIA I'm a Region Leader in CCM Ruling political party . Here is where  Challenges are accepted. 

 we are developing future versions by providing a way to test our Idea, validate the operation process and identify the way to improve/ make corrections on the service which we are rendering before moving into Next stage.

As we are dealing with Community members after we had a long dialogue with my team members about what service did any of us ever done that  touched our community, school mates, friends or colleagues many came up with so many activities done. One member came with so Interested wonderful service that he did . a member said the interested Service he provided alone to about 70students( school mates) In Advanced school  after they have completed the Form six studies, was provision of Computer skills program. our team member is good and was good in science subjects and he used to spent most of his time to learn computer skills and programs personally when he was at school or during holiday therefore he became an expert to Computer program where during his extra curricular was his basic activity. He designed, formulated and make graphics through Computer many fellow students were interested about his progress and some wished to learn.  after they completed school he had almost 70fellow students who were so eager to learn Computer programs from him. He has got a single laptop, this work couldn't be easy for all of the number. so, students came together decided to contribute money then rent a Computer room with 20 computers where at least each student had a chance to practice in Computer program when it was taught. 

students learnt in session and within three months all over them who were serious in learning they got to know the Computer skills  like Word, Excel, Power Point ,Email and internet . Today ,some of them are best ITs.

If a single person did remarkable thing In hearts of many, would it be impossible for 10 people to do mysterious?

with no delay, the team members collected views among themselves and came up with one strong idea that brought the team into so directive proposal writing. We proposed to have Women and Youth forum which would connect different women and youth from various part of the Region and outside Region .
 The proposal  sighted Problems highlighted as a main cause of Mental health and Violence in a society, we suggested the said Topic since most of our team members are members of Akili Platform Tanzania the  NGOs dealing with Mental health issues, Environment issues and Human right. Madam Irene Sanga is an Executive Secretary of Akili Platform Tanzania in Dodoma City Council, We had  also a budget of an Event . Our Goals was to address Mental health issues and Violence against Society, it's Effects and Strategies to be taken so as to reduce the risk in the Community. We made a schedule of what we had to do and prepared Invitations support letters and Cards to different stakeholders .
The team had a first visit to a Regional Commissioner(RC) of Dodoma, whom we wished her to be our Guest of Honor in our Forum,the team shared the proposal before RC, fortunately she was so excited with the Topic on Table and on the spot she made a call to other stakeholders and ambassadors within her office where she asked Region development Officer to join our Conversation, then she Invited other groups like Doctors from National Mental Health Hospital ( Mirembe Hospital found in Dodoma City Council).We got so, Encouraged, thereafter, we distributed other letters to the listed stakeholders and ambassadors we proposed, among us each member were given a task to make follow-ups on what we planned and bring feedback whenever it may be in need.The team announced in different groups,  media and platforms about the Event. The team also got financial supporters who real helped to fulfill  our Idea to reach the Intended community.

During the whole process all of the team members were bounded to speak the same language until we see the best results of what we desired in our journey no matter how hard it could be.
Finally a longing day came, the Forum succeeded to the extent maximum, we saw all of our expectations working. We had different people from various private and government departments, Proffesion Doctors, Region Community leaders, Ward and District community development officers,  Chairmen, member of Parliament ( MP) as our Guest of Honor on behalf of Regional Commissioner, members community. 
Education was given and message delivered to more than 300women and youth  at Dear Mama Hotel.People became aware of so many Mental health issues and Violence action which they were not known before. It was so awesome and amazing day that all of the team members were proud of. The Event shown in different media during News and TV show  such as TBC, Uhondo TV and Manyunyu TV about a week and reached a wide range of Society. This was the begging for our team to be paved a new way to deliver knowledge to different institutions like schools, colleges, churches, and Universities we are doing it to date. It's one step ahead in what we are doing in our community and then after  discovering that most of we in our team have IT skills and some don't have permanent job, we suggested to establish Tech Africana Foundation with the aim of supporting and sharing Digital skills  for those who know nothing about technology to know something and widen their mind. The mission is great and up to now we have almost visited Six(6) underserved schools, we are especially visiting  those schools which have Computers( desk top) already but yet they lack  trainers.we are doing this because we don't have enough laptops, tablets or phones. we are providing Computer Software and Mobile application skills we have been served more than 100 students and are now in a good position of using ICT in their Studies and life in general. 

As young pioneers who are ready to stand,  learn and share what the World  focus and desire to happen to the up coming generations, MIT SOLVE is a right place where is Lending a hand and "build a better Tomorrow " to different Nations all over the World despite of their races or political differences and economic gap.

We are looking to stand for supportive programs so as to become experts to various  issues concerning community and gain valuable, life long connections, resources and access to portfolio funding. 

MIT SOLVE with two open arms is a reason to a fortune that every one deserves. Since it opens an equal chance for everyone to participate in various MIT SOLVE programs, then allow to hear new voices each year and definitely work strongly on solutions and share the beautiful benefits and opportunities to the World. 

Our solution to close the tech gap for secondary and primary students using mobile ICT training program is indeed innovative. we are breaking down why it stands out:

1. MOBILE ACCESSIBILITY: Leveraging mobile devices for ICT education is forward-thinking. Mobile phones are ubiquitous, especially in regions with limited access to traditional computers. By using mobile technology, we are making learning more accessible to a wider audience.

2. HOLISTIC APPROACH: Our solution doesn't stop at basic computer literacy. You're covering a diverse range of skills, including:

    - COMPUTER USAGE: Teaching students how to use computers effectively.

    INTERNET LITERACY: Equipping them with essential internet skills.

    Creative Skills: Offering training in graphic design, film making, music production, and photography.

    - AI Education- introduction to artificial intelligence concepts to empower them beyond basic digital literacy.

3. Social Impact: By reaching out to schools, refugee camps, and orphanages, we are addressing educational disparities. Our solution has the potential to uplift marginalized communities and provide opportunities for growth.

4. Empowerment: Focusing on poverty alleviation is commendable. By imparting practical skills, we are empowering students to break free from poverty cycles and contribute positively to their communities.

In summary, our innovative solution combines accessibility, holistic education, social impact, and empowerment.

Below is words diagram logical frame work of our solution to bridge the digital divide through mobile ICT training program. 

Logical Framework Diagram: Bridging the Digital Divide

1. Goal (Long-Term Objective):

   - Long-Term Goal: Eliminate digital illiteracy among local secondary school students.

   - Indicators: Percentage increase in digital literacy rates.

2. Outcomes (Medium-Term Objectives):

   - Outcome 1: Improve reading proficiency among students by 20% within 3 years.

   - Outcome 2: Enhance practical digital skills (e.g., computer usage, graphic design) for employability.

   - Indicators: Reading assessment scores, skill acquisition rates.

3. Outputs (Short-Term Deliverables):

   - Output 1: Mobile ICT study programs implemented in schools.

   - Output 2: Curriculum developed for e-commerce, digital marketing, and other relevant skills.

   - Indicators: Number of program sessions, curriculum modules created.

4. Activities (Immediate Actions):

   Activity 1: Conduct mobile ICT workshops in schools.

   Activity 2: Train teachers and students on digital tools.

   - Indicators: Workshop attendance, training completion.

5. Assumptions and Risks:

   - Assumption 1: Sufficient government support for program implementation.

   - Assumption 2: Availability of well-ventilated computer rooms.

   Risk: Connectivity challenges in remote areas.

6. Monitoring and Evaluation

   - Regular data collection on student progress.

   - Feedback from beneficiaries and stakeholders.

   - Adjustments based on real-time information.

7. Sustainability and Scalability:

   - Partnerships with NGOs, local governments, and educational institutions.

   - Train-the-trainer model for long-term impact.

   - Open-source sharing of best practices.

8. Impact

   - Empowered students with digital literacy.

   - Improved livelihoods and community development.

here are  impact goals of our solution and discussion on how we plan to measure progress toward achieving them:

1. IMPACT GOAL:

    - Digital Literacy: Empower students with essential digital skills, including computer usage, internet literacy, and creative applications (graphic design, film making, music production, and photography).

    - Equity and Inclusion Bridge the tech gap by reaching marginalized communities, including schools, refugee camps, and orphanages.

    - Poverty Alleviation: Enable students to break free from poverty cycles through practical knowledge and empowerment.

2. Measuring Progress:

    - Baseline Assessment: Conduct an initial assessment to gauge students' existing knowledge and skills in ICT.

    - skills Acquisition Track the acquisition of specific skills (e.g., proficiency in using computers, creating graphics, or understanding AI concepts).

    - Participation Metrics- Monitor student engagement in workshops, classes, and activities related to your solution.

    - Feedback and Survey- Collect feedback from students, teachers, and community members to assess the impact and identify areas for improvement.

    - Long-Term Outcomes: Measure long-term outcomes, such as increased employability, improved educational performance, and community development.

3. INDICATORS OF SUCCESS 

    -Increased Digital Competence: Students demonstrate improved digital literacy and confidence.

    - Expanded Reach The solution reaches a growing number of students across different settings.

    - positive Community Impact .Tangible improvements in the lives of students and their communities.

    - sustainability: The program continues to thrive and adapt over time.

Remember, our solution has the potential to create lasting change and empower future generations.

The core technology that powers our innovative solution to close the tech gap for underserved secondary and primary students is using mobile ICT studies

-Core Technology: Mobile-Enhanced Learning Ecosystem

-Overview:
Our solution leverages a comprehensive mobile-enhanced learning ecosystem -designed to empower students with digital skills, foster equity, and alleviate poverty. Here are the key components:

1. Mobile Applications:
    - Custom Learning Apps: We develop user-friendly mobile applications tailored to the needs of students. These apps provide interactive lessons, quizzes, and practical exercises.
    - Offline Capabilities Recognizing connectivity challenges, our apps allow offline access to pre-downloaded content, ensuring learning continuity even in remote areas.

2. Content Creation and Curation:
    - curriculum Design- We collaborate with educators to create relevant and engaging content. Our curriculum covers basic computer literacy, internet safety, and advanced topics like graphic design, film making, and AI.
    - Multimedia Resources -Our platform hosts videos, animations, e-books, and interactive simulations. Students learn through diverse media, catering to different learning styles.

3. Adaptive Learning Algorithms -
    - Personalized Learning Paths- Our algorithms adapt content based on individual progress, learning pace, and preferences. Students receive targeted recommendations and revisit challenging topics.
    -Assessments and Feedback- Regular quizzes and assessments gauge understanding. Real-time feedback guides students toward improvement.

4. Community Engagement.
    - Peer Learning Networks: Students connect with peers, share knowledge, and collaborate. Discussion forums and virtual study groups foster a sense of community.
    Teachers Interaction-use the platform to communicate, assign tasks, and monitor progress. Regular check-ins ensure personalized support.

5. -Skill Labs and Workshops
    - Mobile Labs-Equipped with tablets or smartphones, students practice hands-on skills. From basic typing to graphic design tools, they gain practical experience.
    - Guest Experts. We organize workshops led by professionals in fields like photography, music production, and AI. Exposure to real-world applications inspires creativity.

6. Data Analytics and Impact Measurement:
    - Learning Analytics: We collect data on student engagement, completion rates, and performance. Insights guide continuous improvement.
    - IMPACT METRICS 
        - Digital Competence: Assess students' proficiency in using computers, software, and online tools.
        - Employability Track graduates' success in securing tech-related jobs.
        - Community Development: Measure positive changes within communities served.

7. Sustainability and Scalability:
    - partnership: Collaborate with NGOs, schools, and local governments. Pool resources and expertise for long-term sustainability.
    - Train-the-Trainer Model: Empower local educators to continue the program independently.
    - Open Source -Share curriculum, tools, and best practices openly to encourage replication.

 Conclusion:
Our mobile-enhanced learning ecosystem combines technology, community engagement, and data-driven insights to bridge the tech gap, empower students, and create lasting impact. By nurturing digital literacy and creativity, we pave the way for a brighter future.

full-time staff 7

part-time staff 2

contractor 1

My team and I has been working on this solution for almost 1 year. Providing digital knowledge for secondary and primary students teaching them basics of computer,and impacts of using technology on their Studies..we visited more than six underserved schools especially those schools which have Computers (desk top) but yet they lack trainers.we are doing this because we don't have enough laptops, tablets or phones of our own to support big number of students. In secondary schools we visited some of trained teachers and students are in a good position of accessing and using Software computer technology and Mobile application

TECH AFRICANA is comprises of various  members with different beliefs and ethics. despite of their physical differences, cultural backgrounds, economic gap, education level and gender ,since  are building the same roof and the aim is to reach at the top our management is basing for whoever builds the spirit of the entrepreneurship development and focus on a brooder vision i.e motivation and inspiration to others about the service we are providing are given first priority.  forexample a team member can show a way of what , how, when, where, to whom to improve our service. This cannot totally ignored because is what we are looking for .we have also involved all kind of gender, their views are considered definety and put into action wherever are seem to be valuable. 

Our organization is non-registered. But it is not a big factor that can limit our team to thrive on global challenges. we did, we are doing and we keep on solving community matters since it is part and parcel of our lives. In most cases we do collaborate with groups and NGO's to make sure we serve our community. we are expecting to register TECH AFRICANA as non-profit organization. For the moment, all of we are volunteers and in order to perform organization activities such as monitoring, meetings and  simple research  about community matters like education( Mobile ICT training program) ,health, environment, gender issues and violence, each member must  contribute some amount based on budget and sometimes we ask for short term financial support from various stakeholders depending on activities on due date. no payment is done yet to any of the team member but all of us are willing and strong committed  to whatever essential comes.

Our plan for financial sustainability involves a multi-prolonged approach, combining revenue generation and strategic partnerships. Here's how we intend to achieve it:

1. Computer Training Center:

   - We will establish a computer training center where individuals can access affordable computer courses.

   - Participants will pay fees for training sessions, contributing to our revenue stream.

2. Donations and Grants:

   - We actively seek donations and grants from organizations and individuals who share our vision.

   - Evidence of success will be demonstrated through the amount of funding secured.

3. Cafeteria and Computer Sales:

   - Operating a cafeteria within our center will generate income.

   - We will also sell computer equipment at competitive prices.

   - Success will be measured by sales revenue and customer satisfaction.

4. Technical Services:

   - Offering technical services (e.g., computer repair, CCTV installation,graphics design,printings,filming, networking) to the community.

   - Evidence of success includes client testimonials and repeat business.

5. Strategic Partnerships:

   - Collaborating with local businesses,Ngos,orphanages, churches,schools, and government agencies.

   - Partnerships will enhance our reach and financial stability.

In summary, our diversified revenue sources and evidence of successful fundraising efforts will ensure our financial sustainability. 

 our financial sustainability plan, emphasizing revenue streams and evidence of success.