The third cohort of the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC)-HEART/NSTA Trust ‘Get Connected’ Digital Literacy training session got under way today (January 7), with 33 senior citizens participating in the course.
The programme, which equips seniors with the skills to confidently use smartphones, tablets and computers, forms part of the Government’s ongoing initiative to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive access for all Jamaican seniors.
Training sessions for the third cohort will be held over the next 10 weeks in Kingston and St. Andrew.
In his remarks, Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr. said the programme is critical as it will help senior citizens “protect themselves online, access information and connect with their families”.
Minister Charles Jr. further noted that the initiative is part of the Ministry’s mandate to promote active, healthy and productive aging.
“Thanks to HEART/NSTA Trust, we provide excellent trainers under the programme. We look forward to more from this strong partnership,” he said, at the opening ceremony held at the NCSC’s West King’s House Road offices in Kingston.
For her part, Acting Regional Director, HEART/NSTA Trust, Dr. Nicole Berry said the participants will also learn how to trouble shoot common issues and leverage digital tools to improve daily life and stay connected with loved ones.
“We are reminded of the incredible success of our first two cohorts. We have seen seniors from ages 62 to 89 embrace technology and thrive… . Upon completion, you will be assessed and awarded the prestigious City and Guilds certification…. a valuable credential to boost your digital confidence,” she said.
Dr. Berry said the HEART/NSTA Trust is proud to collaborate with the Ministry on the initiative.
“We are delighted to welcome our new cohort to this programme. We believe that technology is for everyone. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way and we are excited to see the impact this will have on your lives,” she said.
“In today’s digital world, being tech savvy is the key to staying connected, accessing services and enhancing your quality of life. Digital skills open doors to new possibilities. Building on the success of the first two cohorts, where 65 seniors gained certification, we are confident this group will excel,” Dr. Berry added.
Meanwhile, programme participant, Donald Buhadur, told JIS News that the initiative is important for promoting independence among senior citizens in navigating the digital space.
“As a senior citizen, it is in our best interest to be up to date as much as possible with the new digital technologies… . AI [artificial intelligence] is coming fast and will replace a lot of things, and it is in our interest to keep apace of what is to come and beyond, so we are not left behind,” he said.
