Kirinyaga youths to benefit from free digital literacy training

Adams Makau from Computers For Schools Kenya during a digital literacy training session at Gichugu Technical and Vocational College /HANDOUT 

A lobby group has started an initiative aimed at enhancing digital literacy among youths in Kirinyaga county.

Computers For Schools Kenya, a charitable organisation that has been operating in the country since 2002, facilitates the development of ICT infrastructure and capacity to empower youthful Kenyans and enable them to gain competitive digital skills.

The organisation has now partnered with Huawei to roll out a 10-day training in Kirinyaga county at Gichugu Technical and Vocation College.

The initiative dubbed DigiTruck programme is set to equip the youth with basic digital skills and online job opportunities in collaboration with Ajira digital.

Under the initiative, a truck with a 40-foot shipping container that is converted into a self-sustainable, solar-powered classroom equipped with laptops, smart phones, VR headsets and internet connectivity will provide the training.

The truck that has been converted into a digital literacy classroom /HANDOUT

Adams Makau, a representative from the organisation, said the initiative is part of Huawei's TECH4ALL initiative that provides digital literacy in rural areas.

“Under the programme, the truck travels to rural and remote areas to teach digital literacy, online services and job seeking skills to groups like unemployed youth, women and senior citizens,” he said.

Speaking during the official opening of the initiative, Gichugu MP Gichimu Githinji lauded the initiative, exuding confidence that it will benefit many youths in the grassroots.

Gichimu called on the unemployed youth to take advantage of the 10-day training, adding that the programme will bridge the digital divide as well as improve their professional and social integration.

At Gichugu college, students have been trained in the use of computers and how to maximise the use of smartphones as well as practical skills such as writing resumes, applying for jobs online and accessing public services.