EcoBank and ZICTA Drive Digital Learning for Differently Abled Students in Zambia
The Government of Zambia, under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all children. This commitment was showcased during the handover of a newly refurbished ICT laboratory at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Special School, donated by EcoBank Zambia as part of its Transforming Africa Through Education campaign.
The initiative reflects Zambia’s vision of ensuring that every child, regardless of ability or background, has access to quality education and the tools necessary to thrive in a digital world.
A Commitment to Inclusive Digital Education
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati, emphasised President Hichilema’s directive that no child should be left behind. He highlighted the importance of recognizing the potential of all learners and urged society to create systems that nurture diverse abilities through technology and inclusion.
The UTH Special School was described as a beacon of innovation and transformation, where creativity and resilience meet to redefine what inclusive education can achieve. Mutati praised EcoBank’s three-year commitment to advancing education through digital transformation, which included the donation of 20 computers and the establishment of a fully equipped ICT laboratory.
In support of this effort, the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) announced plans to expand the project by donating an additional 10 computers and introducing AI-enabled learning platforms designed to support personalised education for differently abled students.
EcoBank’s Legacy of Impact
The handover event also marked EcoBank’s 40th anniversary in Africa and 13 years of community impact through the EcoBank Foundation. The bank reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive education and digital literacy by investing K700,000 in the ICT lab, classroom furniture, and a projector for the UTH Special School.
EcoBank’s leadership highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence and assistive technologies in helping children with disabilities overcome barriers to learning. By leveraging these tools, differently abled students can access customised learning experiences that enhance both comprehension and confidence.
Complementing EcoBank’s efforts, the Harvest Group of Companies, through its social impact arm—the Harvest Foundation—donated 256 school bags containing exercise books, pens, and pencils to support the learners. The foundation reaffirmed its dedication to empowering communities through sustained investments in education, especially for vulnerable and differently abled children.
Partnership for Sustainable Transformation
The EcoBank Day 2025 celebration at UTH Special School showcased the power of collaboration among government, private sector, and civil society in advancing inclusive, technology-driven education.
The refurbished ICT lab, equipped with 30 computers and AI-enabled learning systems, symbolises Zambia’s shift from labelling learners as having “special needs” to embracing their “differentiated abilities.” This new perspective emphasises inclusive curriculum design, digital literacy, and equitable access to technology.
Building Zambia’s Digital Education Future
Through partnerships like this, Zambia is demonstrating leadership in digital inclusion and educational transformation. By integrating technology, innovation, and inclusivity, the country is laying a strong foundation for a future where education serves as a catalyst for social and economic development.
The EcoBank-ZICTA partnership stands as a testament to the belief that when public and private sectors unite for a shared cause, no learner is left behind.
