The digital divide in education refers to the chasm that separates students with access to computing and networking technology from those with little or no access. Digital literacy represents what Henry Jenkins, co-director of the MIT Comparative Media Studies Program, calls the “hidden curriculum”: skills and knowledge derived from Internet technology that give children an added advantage by enabling them to do better in school, converse with more ease and authority, navigate diverse social networks, and favorably impress college admissions officials and potential employers.

E-Schools for Socioeconomic Advances in Africa

The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) includes an e-schools initiative developed to help bridge the digital divide by delivering IT skills and knowledge to primary and secondary school students, paving the way for better access to opportunities in local and global economies. 

Cisco’s direct investment in NEPAD, which began in March 2005, includes Cisco people and cash amounting to approximately $3.5 million over three years. More than 30,000 students were provided with first-time access to computers and Internet connectivity, and the number continues to grow as new students enter the e-schools each year. Cisco is leading NEPAD implementations in 19 secondary schools in Algeria, Ghana, Mauritius, Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa, and we will also provide equipment to 39 additional schools in nine other countries. Cisco also deployed a website for NEPAD teachers, school administrators and support staff at www.cisconepadeschools.com .

A survey of 55 teachers conducted in November 2007 indicated a marked shift in learner behavior:

• 94 percent of survey respondents thought that learners were more motivated.
• 83 percent reported that learners asked more questions.
• 75 percent felt that students were more self-confident.
• 86 percent observed that there was evidence of better peer collaboration.
• 85 percent felt that their students were more engaged in their work.
• 74 percent felt that learners were doing homework more frequently.

Watch a video about NEPAD at: