The Context
As of 2025, China has approximately 1.406 billion inhabitants. While the country continues to stand out for its economic development, technological advancement, and cultural richness, it also faces persistent demographic and social challenges, particularly in territorial and educational disparities.
Education remains a central pillar of national development. Over recent years, significant investments have been made to modernize schools, strengthen teacher training, and promote more inclusive education policies. At the same time, ensuring equitable access to quality learning opportunities across such a vast and diverse territory remains a major challenge.
In rural and remote areas, schools often face structural limitations, including reduced access to digital tools, limited infrastructure, and fewer opportunities for hands-on digital learning. Students in these contexts typically have limited exposure to technology, despite strong motivation to learn and a growing awareness of the importance of digital skills for their future.
Progress is evident, and national efforts continue to narrow these gaps. Yet the mission remains ongoing: ensuring that every child, regardless of geography or background, can access meaningful digital education and develop the skills needed to participate fully in an increasingly digital society.
ST Foundation’s presence
The ST Foundation launched its activities in China in 2014 with the first Introduction to Computer Basics Facilitation Course (ICBF) in Shenzhen, in collaboration with the local ST site. From the outset, the initiative aimed to equip teachers and community members with essential digital skills to support more inclusive and accessible learning pathways.
Over the years, the program has expanded thanks to the strong engagement of ST colleagues and local education partners. This collective effort has been instrumental in extending the Foundation’s reach, particularly within public schools in rural and underserved areas.
In 2025, the Foundation supported 5 ICB and 3 Tablet for Kids centers, all hosted within public schools across several regions, including Guangdong, Jiangxi, Guangxi, and Ganzhou, reaching more than 1,200 beneficiaries.
The program continues to rely on strong local partnerships, including collaboration with public organizations such as the Shenzhen Charity Federation, which play a key role in facilitating access to schools and ensuring effective coordination on the ground.
As of the end of March 2026, the program has reached over 7,900 beneficiaries, reflecting steady growth and continued progress in advancing digital inclusion in the country.
