Ericsson and Free Senegal have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a proof-of-concept (PoC) project to boost the West African country’s digital education ecosystem.

According to the PoC, schools will be connected with Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology, and also receive laptops, learning content, and teacher training.

The project will run under the auspices of Ericsson's global initiative the Connect To Learn program, which aims to improve educational opportunities through technology.

Ericsson says schools in Senegal use mobile networks for internet connection and to access online education.

Usually implemented as a solution for homes and businesses, the PoC will demonstrate how FWA, using existing mobile network infrastructure, is a cost-effective and a quickly deployed solution to connect schools.

The latest Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) Connected Learners report commissioned by Ericsson has shown that enabling new forms of learning powered by the internet and digital technologies play an important role in bridging the educational divide.

Mamadou Mbengue, CEO of Free Senegal says: “Using solutions such as Fixed Wireless Access, we can help the schools, teachers, and students in very resource-limited settings in Senegal to leapfrog into the digital education ecosystem. Improved learning outcomes will lead to a wider range of higher education and career opportunities for young people across the country and will transition Senegal into a more knowledge-rich society. We look forward to a continued fruitful partnership with Ericsson and remain determined in our mission to accelerate digital development across Senegal.”

Nora Wahby, Vice President and Head of Customer Unit Morocco & West Africa at Ericsson, says: “Fixed Wireless Access deployments are increasing extensively, and we are working across the globe to bridge the digital divide by offering broadband. Increased access to connectivity and digital learning resources through solutions such as Fixed Wireless Access will not only raise the quality of education but also benefit Senegal's society at a macroeconomic level – resulting in higher standards of living, better health, and improved overall well-being. Partnering with Free Senegal for many years, we look forward to enriching our partnership by fostering a digital education ecosystem in the country. We are confident this project will positively impact the lives of students and teachers and empower digital skills development in the country.”