BT launches $3m partnership with Unicef

BT's partnership with Unicef will help children in some of the most economically deprived communities in South Africa

BT today promised to invest $3m in a global development partnership with Unicef to bring education, technology and communications skills to children from poor backgrounds in South Africa, Brazil and China.

The telco said that the three-year partnership will help over 18,000 children in some of the most economically deprived communities in South Africa in its first year.

In 2007/08, the project will focus on rural and semi-rural areas to enhance the quality of basic education for all children in the programme.

Focusing on communities in two of the most economically disadvantaged South African provinces - KwaZulu, Natal and the Eastern Cape - a total of 25 schools have been selected to receive assistance from this initiative.

In addition to installing 250 computers, BT's investment will help renovate schools and build additional classrooms and computer labs.

Some 150 head teachers and administrators will also be trained in effective school management and leadership skills.

Andy Green, BT executive board member and chief executive of BT Global Services, said: "Those of us who have grown up with technology often take it for granted.

"By teaming up with Unicef and supporting the South African government's educational priorities, we hope to help Unicef bring the benefits and opportunities of technology to children and young people in some of the country's most remote and poorly resourced communities."