By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The state of Alabama has unveiled the Alabama Digital Education Network (ADEN), a $16 million public-private initiative designed to bring advanced digital learning, connectivity, and workforce training to the state’s most rural and underserved regions.
Backed by new state funding and a partnership with Apple Inc. and Alabama Power, the program seeks to establish community-based “learning hubs” in libraries, schools, and community centers across the Black Belt and other hard-to-reach areas.
“The launch of the Alabama Digital Education Network is a landmark moment for our state,” said Governor Kay Ivey. “Alabama is a national leader in both workforce development and broadband connectivity, and this initiative builds on that success by ensuring every student has access to the tools they need to succeed in our modern economy. We are bridging the digital divide, bringing the power of technology and high-quality education and workforce training directly to our most rural communities, and securing a brighter future for all Alabamians.”
The nonprofit Ed Farm will spearhead the implementation of ADEN, leveraging Apple’s curriculum through the Apple Foundation Program to deliver eight-week courses in app development, digital design, and coding for adult learners—no previous tech background required.
Meanwhile, Alabama Power will provide the crucial broadband infrastructure needed to make these hubs functional in remote communities. “Since 2017, we’ve installed more than 2,000 miles of fiber … we’re grateful this infrastructure investment is helping ADEN advance workforce development and educational opportunities across rural Alabama,” said Alabama Power President & CEO Jeff Peoples.
State House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter described the project as “much more than just a partnership … it is a lifeline for West Alabama and will have a generational impact on the region.”
The first major hub will be hosted by Alabama State University (ASU) in Montgomery—an HBCU with deep ties to the Black Belt—serving as the central anchor for the network.
“Alabama State University is proud to serve as the Montgomery hub for this transformative initiative,” said ASU President Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr. “As a Historically Black College and University rooted in the heart of the Black Belt, we understand the vital role access to digital infrastructure plays in closing opportunity gaps and empowering communities. This partnership allows Alabama State to continue setting the pace in workforce innovation and community impact—bringing bold, tech-driven solutions to the forefront of education. This initiative marks yet another historic milestone in our mission to lead, serve, and uplift.”
By connecting underserved learners with high-speed internet access, state-of-the-art technology, and market-relevant training, ADEN seeks to close long-standing gaps in access and prepare Alabamians for the digital economy.
As Sen. Bobby Singleton noted, “The launch of ADEN will be a transformative moment for the Black Belt … and ensure that every Alabamian has a fair shot at success in the modern workforce.”