August 14, 2023 – One of the main constraints in the development of the underprivileged communities where we operate is a lack of access to digital infrastructure. ICT is therefore a crucial part of our training program. In such isolated communities, being given the chance to connect to the world can be transformational, as digital skills are important for a number of things, not least being able to access information via the internet, or using digital tools for financial reporting, or communicating via email. Bridging the digital divide is therefore crucial to our global approach to create sustainable peace and improving livelihoods.
This year, from May 30th to June 16th, we ran a special initiative aimed at developing digital literacy skills of a group of 60 parish chiefs in south Karamoja, Uganda, specifically in the districts of Amudat, Nakapiripirit and Nabilatuk. This was a unique opportunity for the participants to learn about how to use computers to access knowledge, and connect with the wider world. Trainees were taught about the different hardware components of a computer such as Hard Disks, RAMs, Motherboards and their functions, and the different interfaces of operating systems. They also learnt how to design and format a document using word processors, prepare spreadsheet applications and perform calculations, make presentations using PowerPoint and how to use the internet to connect with people.
For some participants, this was their very first contact with a computer, and a transformative experience. “I heard about the capacity building training by WPDI for ICT through the district local government forum and I found myself joining. I used to hear about computers, but I’ve never had the chance to touch one, since my parish has no computers at all. When WPDI came here, I was able to touch and use a computer for the first time in my life. Before joining the program, I didn’t know what a Word document was, I didn’t even know what an Excel spreadsheet was, but now I can perform data entry using Excel. I have also learned how to use a Gmail account using the internet. I am very grateful to WPDI for such an opportunity to enable me to learn new skills,” said Losike Christine, a 27-year-old parish chief from Nakapiripirit district.
Our ICT courses are a vital component of our peacebuilding strategy. Providing underprivileged communities with access to digital technologies is so important because, in an increasingly globalized world and global economy, they risk getting left behind. Peace is dependent on economic stability, and digital literacy increases their scope for financial security and the success of their eventual business projects. It also allows for intercommunal connectivity, helping them feel part of our global community, and constitutes a platform on which messages of peace can be more easily dissipated.
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