Mascom Champions Digital Inclusion Through WTISD 2026 and Girls in ICT Initiatives

As Botswana joined the global celebration of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) 2026 under the theme “Digital Lifelines: Strengthening Resilience in a Connected World,” Mascom Wireless reaffirmed its commitment to digital inclusion by empowering girls and young women with STEM and Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills.

In partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Innovation, Mascom participated in the national WTISD commemoration hosted in Natale Village and simultaneously delivered practical Girls in ICT training programmes across the Tonota District, including Borolong and Chamabona.

The two-day initiative focused on equipping young women and girls at different stages of their educational journeys with future-ready digital skills. At Tlhalogang CJSS in Borolong, junior school girls participated in STEM exposure sessions covering drone education, emerging technologies, and conversations aimed at breaking stereotypes surrounding science and technology careers. Meanwhile, out-of-school young women at Chamabona CJSS received hands-on training on practical AI applications for entrepreneurship, job searching, CV writing, digital marketing, and everyday problem-solving.

The sessions were facilitated by Mascom engineers from the Radio Access Network (RAN) Field North team, Ms. Kene Dongwana and Ms. Shatho Gabonewe, who shared technical expertise and personal career experiences in engineering and technology.

As part of the WTISD celebrations, Mascom also engaged communities through its exhibition stall in Natale Village, showcasing its services and demonstrating how technology and connectivity continue to support a more resilient and digitally inclusive Botswana.

Through initiatives such as Girls in ICT and WTISD participation, Mascom continues to power connections that inspire change by promoting digital literacy, innovation, and broader participation in Botswana’s evolving digital economy.