Windhoek: Eight schools across the country on Wednesday received 200 OPPO tablets with the goal to support hands-on learning and help bridge the digital divide, particularly in underserved communities. The devices were handed over as part of the UNESCO Youth Coding Initiative, a programme aimed at equipping young Namibians with digital and artificial intelligence (AI) skills to drive the country's technological advancement and economic growth.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the UNESCO-CODEMAO Youth Coding Initiative in Africa and Asia is a flagship partnership between UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, CODEMAO - a browser-based product that helps students learn programming with graphical language, OPPO - a private Chinese consumer electronics manufacturer, and the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture. This initiative backed by the People's Republic of China, UNESCO, OPPO, and CODEMAO is a major step in implementing Namibia's Sixth Development Plan (NDP6).

The schools that received the tablets were M and K Gertze High School from Hardap, Rundu Secondary School from Kavango East, Khomas High School from Khomas, Ekangolinene Combined School from Omusati, Mweshipandeka High School from Oshana, Okahandja Secondary School from Otjozondjupa, Ngweze Secondary School from Zambezi, and Leevi Hakusembe Secondary School from Kavango West.

Speaking at the launch in Windhoek, Education Minister Sanet Steenkamp explained the importance of integrating coding and AI into the national curriculum. 'By training our teachers and providing learners with the tools they need, we are investing in our most precious resource; our people,' emphasised Steenkamp.

Eunice Smith, UNESCO Representative to Namibia, emphasised the long-term goals of the initiative. 'Together, we are not just launching a coding and AI initiative, we are opening doors to a future where our young people can lead in the digital age,' said Smith.

China's Ambassador to Namibia, Zhao Weiping, reiterated China's commitment to backing Namibia's digital transformation. 'Youth are the future of all nations, and AI represents the future of the world, China is ready to work closely with Namibia to promote bilateral digital and AI cooperation.' Zhao praised CODEMAO and OPPO, both Chinese companies, on their role in advancing AI technology in the country.

The Youth Coding Initiative is part of a broader effort to prepare Namibia's youth for the digital economy and to position the country as a regional leader in technology and innovation. It also supports global efforts under the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.