Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk
On September 18, 2025, the Ministry of National Education, Literacy and Promotion of National Languages officially launched the High-Speed Internet Connectivity – Education Project at Abache Chaibou High School in Niamey. The initiative, led by Minister Dr. Élisabeth Sherif, will connect 298 schools to high-speed internet within five months, marking a major step in modernizing Niger’s education system.
The project forms part of the 2025 Work Program of the Intelligent Village initiative, specifically its second component focused on strengthening digital connectivity nationwide. Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Sherif emphasized that education is the backbone of the nation and that digital access has become a vital tool for learning, knowledge sharing, and preparing future professionals.
The minister underlined that the project reflects the firm commitment of President Abdourahamane Tiani and Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine to making digital transformation a key driver of educational progress in Niger. She encouraged students to use the opportunity wisely, describing the connected classrooms as “open doors to the world,” and reminded teachers that connectivity is designed to support and enrich their role, not replace it.
Once completed, the project will give students and teachers in nearly 300 schools access to a vast pool of educational materials, interactive programs, and digital tools that enhance learning quality. The launch event gathered high-level representatives, including the Director General of the National Information Society Agency (ANSI), the Governor of Niamey Region’s representative, the Chairman of the High Personal Data Protection Authority, a World Bank representative, leaders of major telecom operators, and education stakeholders.
