AS World Tech, a Beninese technology company, has launched the "Connected Students" programme, an initiative aimed at providing affordable computers to 100,000 Beninese students. The programme, presented during a press conference, seeks to bridge the digital divide and equip students with the necessary tools to succeed in the digital age. The company plans to offer 100,000 computers over a period of 24 months, with a first phase of 2,000 devices.
The programme's objective is to facilitate access to quality education and digital opportunities for Beninese students. Marius Houndénou, director of operations at AS World Tech, emphasized that the lack of access to quality computers is a significant obstacle for many students. The programme aims to address this issue by providing affordable financing options for students to acquire computers. This initiative is expected to contribute to the emergence of new talents and enable Beninese youth to participate fully in the digital revolution.
AS World Tech has designed two computer models for the programme. The first model, FIFA R, is intended for students in fields that do not require high-performance computing and is priced at 170,000 FCFA. The second model, more powerful and equipped with an Intel Core i7 processor, 1 To SSD, and 32 Go of RAM, is priced at 620,000 FCFA, a significant discount from its market price of 860,000 FCFA. The financing options for these computers include an initial deposit and monthly payments over 24 months.
In addition to the computers, the programme offers complementary services, including unlimited internet access and cybersecurity solutions. The internet offer is priced at 10,000 FCFA per month, with the possibility of paying 340 FCFA per day. A cybersecurity solution, in partnership with Kaspersky, is offered at 1,700 FCFA per month. The programme also includes after-sales service and technical assistance available 24/7.
The programme targets three categories of students: scholarship holders, non-scholarship holders with a financial guarantee, and those without a scholarship or external financial support. For the latter category, AS World Tech has developed a mechanism that allows students to generate income by promoting products or services on social media and messaging applications.
Several partners, including Coris Bank, La Poste du Bénin, MTN Bénin, Kaspersky, and NCA Assurance, are involved in the implementation of the programme. Coris Bank provides financing for the project, while La Poste du Bénin will facilitate the repayment of monthly instalments for scholarship holders.
The "Connected Students" programme is expected to have a positive impact on the educational and professional prospects of Beninese students. By providing access to affordable computers and digital services, AS World Tech aims to empower students and equip them with the skills and tools necessary to succeed in the digital economy.
Key points
- The programme aims to provide 100,000 affordable computers to Beninese students over 24 months.
- Two computer models are offered, with prices starting at 170,000 FCFA and 620,000 FCFA.
- The programme includes complementary services, such as internet access and cybersecurity solutions.
