MobiStation, first developed by UNICEF Uganda, is a solar-powered multimedia kit built around a laptop, projector, document camera, speaker and other peripherals, all contained in a portable suitcase. MobiStations can be set up in schools and health centers in rural communities and provide access to quality learning content 24/7.
Uganda, 2013. MobiStation is a solar-powered multimedia kit complete with a laptop, projector, scanner, and speakers, all contained in a portable suitcase. Photo credit: Sara Jacobs, UNICEF Innovation Unit, NYHQ
In Uganda, MobiStation addresses some of the biggest challenges of the education system: teacher absenteeism, poor-quality instruction, and lack of textbooks. MobiStation also has significant implications for emergency: it can be taken to affected areas to setup a temporary school or communication center, even in places lacking electricity and Internet connection.
To develop the next generation of MobiStation prototypes, UNICEF recently launched an innovative partnership with a leading Chinese IT company, Honghe Technology Group, which specializes in multimedia audiovisual products and research. All MobiStation technical specifications and testing results will be publicly available for individuals and organizations to use or adapt according to their needs. This partnership allows UNICEF to tap into the expertise of the private sector for its programmes and create public goods, and the private sector to better understand users, use cases and the market for their core businesses.
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