Airtel Tanzania is marking World Youth Skills Day 2025 by highlighting its continued devotion to equipping young people with the digital tools and knowledge they need to thrive in today’s economy. The company is helping to build a digitally literate and economically empowered youth population across the country through innovative initiatives including the Airtel SMARTWASOMI and Fursa Lab.

This year’s theme, ‘Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills,’ aligns strongly with Airtel’s focus on removing barriers to skills development through inclusive digital solutions. With over 60 percent of Tanzania’s population under the age of 25, the telecom company recognizes that the future of the nation’s growth depends on how effectively young people are prepared for the opportunities of the digital age.

Speaking at the Airtel Headquarters in Dar es Salaam, the Director of Corporate Communications at Airtel Tanzania, Beatrice Singano, remarked that “Our goal is to ensure that every young Tanzanian has access to the tools that can unlock their potential. Through Airtel SMARTWASOMI, we are removing the cost barrier to learning by offering free access to curriculum content, while Fursa Lab allows young people and teachers to build practical tech skills that are in demand in the modern workforce.”

Singano detailed that Airtel SMARTWASOMI, a joint effort by Airtel Tanzania through the Airtel Africa Foundation, UNICEF, and the Government of Tanzania, offers free access to curriculum-aligned content developed by the Tanzania Institute of Education (TIE) and Shule Direct. The platform features lessons, quizzes, and revision tools, all available without incurring data costs. It is currently in use across both urban and rural schools, supporting classroom learning and enhancing students’ digital skills.

“In parallel, Fursa Lab, an initiative launched in partnership with the Dar Teknohama Business Incubator (DTBi), continues to serve as a key skills hub in Dar es Salaam. Since its launch, the initiative has equipped thousands of young people and hundreds of educators with skills in areas such as computer literacy, robotics, mobile app development, digital marketing, and 3D design,” she revealed. 

Singano further said, “As we celebrate this important day, we are reminded that technology and partnerships are powerful tools in unlocking opportunities for youth. We are truly honored to work hand in hand with our partners and the government to empower Tanzania’s future digital leaders.”

Airtel’s continued investment in platforms like SMARTWASOMI and Fursa Lab supports Tanzania’s national development goals and contributes to global efforts to expand digital learning and innovation through cross-sector collaboration. In observance of World Youth Skills Day, Airtel Tanzania continues to prioritize strategic initiatives aimed at advancing youth empowerment and promoting inclusive digital development.