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Youth

Digital Skills Training in Ugandan Libraries Bridges the Divide

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As part of the EIFL Digital skills@your local library project, public and community libraries in Uganda are providing training to over 2,000 people, mostly marginalized groups, to acquire digital skills and access online learning resources. The training focuses on basic ICT skills, followed by online courses in group learning sessions. Participants have shown enthusiasm for the program, using their new skills to create new products, improve their craft, and even repair electronics. The project aims to narrow the digital divide, with only 48% of the population currently using the internet.

Key Takeaways:

  • 25 public and community libraries in Uganda have trained over 2,000 people in basic ICT skills and online learning.
  • The EIFL Digital skills@your local library project focuses on marginalized groups, including single mothers, street vendors, business women, and unemployed youth.
  • Participants have used their new skills to create new products, improve their craft, and even repair electronics.
  • The project has seen a high uptake of online courses, with learners taking advantage of the opportunity to learn new skills in group learning sessions.
  • Local governments have approached libraries to train officials, teachers, and health workers in computer and internet skills.
  • Librarians are reaching out beyond the library walls to train in other educational institutions or open places.

Statistics:

  • 48% of the population in Uganda is currently using the internet.
  • 25 public and community libraries are participating in the EIFL Digital skills@your local library project.
  • Over 2,000 people have been trained in basic ICT skills and online learning.
  • The project has seen a high uptake of online courses, with learners taking advantage of the opportunity to learn new skills in group learning sessions.

Sources:

  • EIFL Digital skills@your local library project news release
  • Maendeleo Foundation
  • National Library of Uganda

(Vilnius: Electronic Information for Libraries)

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