The project, implemented by Dema Trust Learners UG through its Smart Learners UG platform (www.smartlearnersug.com), aims to reduce secondary school dropout in Uganda by improving access to affordable, quality education through digital learning and public e-libraries. It responds to challenges faced by learners from low-income households and underserved communities, including the high cost of secondary education, limited access to textbooks and revision materials, inadequate digital learning facilities, and insufficient academic support.

The project proposes to establish 10 public e-libraries in Maracha, Zombo, Arua, Masindi, Kikuube, Buliisa, Buyende, Namayingo, Kisoro and Ntungamo districts. Each e-library will be equipped with computers, internet connectivity, furniture and essential learning facilities. These centres will enable learners who lack personal devices or reliable internet access to benefit from digital educational resources.

Through Smart Learners UG, learners will access pre-recorded lessons for Senior One to Senior Six, downloadable subject notes, selected textbooks and past examination papers. The platform will also provide teacher support and selected practical learning sessions to strengthen understanding, revision and examination preparation. A proposed annual subscription of US$6 is intended to make digital learning affordable for learners and families with limited financial resources.

The project will prioritise disadvantaged learners, particularly those at risk of leaving school because of financial difficulties and limited access to learning opportunities. By combining affordable digital content with accessible community learning facilities, the initiative seeks to reduce educational barriers, improve learner participation and support progression through secondary education.

Implementation will include the establishment and equipping of the e-libraries, development and delivery of learning content, community awareness activities, learner registration and ongoing monitoring. Progress will be assessed through indicators such as the number of e-libraries established, learners registered, usage of digital resources, participation in revision activities, and available UCE and UACE examination and progression data.

The expected long-term outcome is improved access to secondary education and a contribution to reducing school dropout in the target communities. The project also aims to create a scalable model for expanding affordable digital learning opportunities to other underserved areas of Uganda.