By a Guest writer
An inclusive Digital Academy programme has gone operational on Tuesday 25 July 2023 in Abong-Mbang, East Region of Cameroon. The programme is the outcome of a partnership agreement signed between MTN Foundation and IAI to improve the digital literacy rate of the Cameroonian population, particularly young people, women, the disabled and underprivileged, seeking socio-professional integration.
The Digital Academy training programme is a non-curriculum training system for basic digital skills. In this first phase, 600 people will be trained in eight (8) sessions, which will take place successively in the towns of Abong-Mbang, Mbalmayo, Ebolowa, Garoua, Bafang, Ngaoundéré, Maroua and Mokolo. The participants will be introduced to the basics of computer science, use of smartphones, Internet-browsing and online self-protection.
According to MTN Foundation’s Executive Secretary, the programme will bridge an existing digital divide in the country. "There is digital divide in our country. This leads to digital illiteracy, and is a concern for us because nowadays, knowing how to read and write is not sufficient enough. There is also the need to acquire the essential skills to use tech tools and familiarize with the opportunities offered by digital technology. By eliminating the entry barriers, we enable every individual to feel included in the ongoing digital revolution and participate in the progress of our country and Africa", Danielle Mbome Efoula said.
Amongst those who answered present at the launch was the representative of Cameroon's Minister of Public Service and Administrative Reforms who described the programme to improve the quality of life for the youths, women and disabled communities. Also present there was the Senior Divisional Officer of the Upper Nyong Division, Divisional Officer of Abong-Mbang, a representative of the Mayor of Abong-Mbang, representatives of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), IAI and a delegation from MTN Cameroon.
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