4G operator Vodafone Zambia has launched JUMP Academy, an internet enabled application that offers unlimited access to a wide range of educational materials.

These materials are tailored to the local curriculum and accessible through any mobile device, according to the operator.

Vodafone Zambia CEO Lars Stork said the aim of the JUMP Academy initiative is to align education to current trends in the ICT space, thereby complementing the government's efforts to digitalise learning.

Stork said the JUMP Academy will provide a series of lecture videos that cuts across subject matters, featuring qualified lecturers from reputable institutions including the University of Zambia (UNZA), the Copperbelt University, University of Lusaka and the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies and guest lecturers from Harvard University.

"Through partnerships and numerous educational resources on the platform, we hope to fast-track education into the digital age, thus facilitating the enhancement of systems such as health, governance and economic growth," Stork said.

The Minister of Higher Education Professor Nkandu Luo said, "My Ministry understands that with the introduction of ICT in education, a new world of possibilities is available to assist both students and lectures maximise on the learning experience. Our nation's rise in internet users and revolutionary changes that have happened in education have created a very fertile ground for e-learning to growth."

E-learning in Zambia is yet to gain popularity, despite the availability of internet coverage in most parts of the country.

In 2014, the government, in partnership with private firm iSchool.zm, piloted the use of e-learning facilities in schools in Lusaka with the intention of rolling out the programme nationally.