GSMA Advance training will empower communities worldwide with cutting-edge digital training and skills development
4 March 2025, Barcelona: The GSMA today announced the launch of a new skills training initiative aimed at tackling digital poverty and bridging the digital divide.
In partnership with the N50 Project, GSMA Advance, the skills and training division of the mobile industry association, will offer at least 100 fully sponsored scholarships to individuals and communities worldwide, giving them access to specialised digital training resources and educational courses.
Through the scholarships, applicants will be able to further their knowledge through GSMA Advance’s curriculum into the latest advancements in mobile technology. These scholarships represent a vital component of the GSMA’s and the N50 Project’s wider shared strategy to connect billions of people currently excluded from digital opportunities, enabling underserved communities to thrive in an increasingly connected world.
Speaking at MWC25 Barcelona, Dr Drew MacFarlane, Head of GSMA Advance, said: “Digital connectivity is no longer a privilege – it’s crucial for future societal development. Our partnership with the N50 Project marks a significant step in strengthening skills and professional development within the mobile and telecoms industry. By equipping individuals and communities with industry-specific knowledge and tools, we are practically taking steps to close the digital divide whilst also driving innovation, economic growth, and long-term sustainability within the mobile ecosystem.”
Daniel Gutwein, CEO N50 Project, said: “At the N50, we are committed to eliminating digital poverty by bringing connectivity, technology, and opportunity to all communities. Through this collaboration with GSMA, we are not only expanding access but also equipping individuals with critical workforce development skills. This partnership exemplifies the transformative impact of digital access, creating pathways to economic opportunity and a better future for all.”
A Unified Mission to Accelerate Connectivity Globally
Currently, 3.45 billion people are not connected to mobile internet services, the overwhelming majority (90%) of whom live in areas with available coverage they are not making use of. These people fall into what is called the ‘usage gap’ and is the product of a number of barriers including affordability issues, a lack of digital skills and literacy, and concerns around security or the lack of relevant or localised content. This initiative embodies the GSMA’s commitment to unlock the full power of connectivity by promoting collaboration across industries, governments, and local communities.
Greater connectivity in underprivileged areas can yield transformative benefits, from better healthcare access to high-quality educational opportunities, and improved agricultural practices to greater financial inclusion.
By raising standards, addressing skills gaps, and ensuring access to high-quality learning opportunities, the GSMA and the N50 Project aim to democratise digital access and create a more equitable global digital landscape.
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About GSMA
The GSMA is a global organisation unifying the mobile ecosystem to discover, develop and deliver innovation foundational to positive business environments and societal change. Our vision is to unlock the full power of connectivity so that people, industry, and society thrive. Representing mobile operators and organisations across the mobile ecosystem and adjacent industries, the GSMA delivers for its members across three broad pillars: Connectivity for Good, Industry Services and Solutions, and Outreach. This activity includes advancing policy, tackling today’s biggest societal challenges, underpinning the technology and interoperability that make mobile work, and providing the world’s largest platform to convene the mobile ecosystem at the MWC and M360 series of events.
We invite you to find out more at gsma.com
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About the N50 Project
The N50 Project is a global non-profit committed to bridging the digital divide by delivering meaningful connectivity, technology, digital literacy, and essential applications to the world’s most underserved communities. With a growing network of more than 240 global technology partners—representing over 1 million tech employees worldwide—N50 rapidly deploys localized solutions at a fraction of the cost.