Technology plays a vital role in education, workforce training, and career readiness, yet many students in rural communities lack access to essential digital tools. To address this challenge, Mississippi Broadband Association (MSBA), Coahoma Community College (CCC), Digitunity, AT&T, and The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi partnered to launch a rural technology access initiative in Coahoma County, Mississippi.
On January 15, 2025, 100 large-screen laptops were distributed to students at CCC through the Laptop Investment Event. The program focuses on students enrolled in Career & Technical Education (CTE), Workforce, and Adult Education programs and serves as a pilot to evaluate the impact of computer ownership on academic engagement, program completion, and career advancement.
HBCUs Driving Digital Opportunities in Higher Education
As a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), Coahoma Community College is committed to expanding learning opportunities for students and strengthening pathways to success. HBCUs across the country prioritize technology access as a tool for education, professional training, and economic mobility. By working with community and corporate partners, CCC enhances students’ ability to stay connected, complete coursework, and prepare for the workforce.
“This partnership expands opportunities in education, economic empowerment, healthcare accessibility, civic engagement, [and] infrastructure development… [It] reaffirms our shared commitment to uplifting communities, fostering long-term sustainability, and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to excel and flourish.” — Steven R. Jossell, Executive Director, CCC Workforce Development Center
Creating a Sustainable Approach to Technology Access
This initiative is part of a broader effort to increase computer ownership, provide digital training, and strengthen workforce development programs. By investing in technology solutions for students, Coahoma County is building a model for expanding digital resources in rural areas, ensuring learners can develop the skills needed for academic and career success.
Read more about this initiative in Tech Hive.
Digitunity is a national nonprofit organization with a mission to make owning a computer possible for everyone. Engaged in advancing digital equity for nearly forty years, Digitunity generates and places donated computers with organizations serving people in need, supports a national practitioner network, and advises states, cities, and coalitions on strategies to meet the ongoing device needs of people impacted by the digital divide.
