The Importance of Digital Literacy
In today’s era, being digitally literate is no longer a choice but a necessity. At the urban community level, there is a significant demand for digital literacy skills to meet the challenges of an increasingly digital world. Recognizing this pressing need, Seva Sahayog took the initiative to launch the Digital Literacy Program. This program focuses on improving the quality of life for urban community members by providing essential digital knowledge and simplifying their daily routines.
The project aims to ensure that at least one member of every family in the community gains foundational digital literacy. By enhancing computer skills among students and households, it opens pathways to future career opportunities and empowers individuals to manage everyday tasks more efficiently.
The program provides hands-on training through courses in Digital Literacy, Microsoft Office, Tally, Office Assistance, Online Banking, and Cybersecurity, along with certifications for eligible students. It leverages skilled resources to ensure effective skill development and empower participants with practical knowledge.
Sankalp Digital Maharashtra: A Key Component of the Digital Literacy Program
As part of the Digital Literacy Program, Sankalp Digital Maharashtra addresses the critical lack of computer infrastructure in schools across Maharashtra. Many schools lack access to computers, and in some cases, teachers are forced to draw computer components on blackboards to explain concepts.
The Sankalp Digital Maharashtra Project focuses on bridging this gap by establishing fully-equipped computer laboratories in schools, particularly in rural and remote areas. By providing modern computers and updated teaching methodologies, this initiative transforms the learning experience. It fosters experiential learning, promotes student engagement, and equips students with the necessary skills to succeed in a technology-driven world.
Together, the Digital Literacy Program and its Sankalp Digital Maharashtra initiative are empowering communities and schools with the tools and skills needed to thrive in the digital age.
Objectives
- Equip at least one member of every family in urban communities (vasti) with essential digital literacy skills to bridge the digital divide.
- Enable individuals to effectively utilize these skills for simplifying tasks, improving productivity, and enhancing their quality of life.
- Establish well-equipped computer laboratories in schools across remote areas of Maharashtra, fostering digital literacy and experiential learning among students.
Impact
Empowering Maharashtra through Digital Literacy
During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the Digital Literacy Program collaborated with NGOs across Maharashtra, reaching beneficiaries in regions including Yavatmal, Buldhana, Nagpur, Chandrapur, Ahmednagar, Kolhapur, Jalna, Sangli, Jalgaon, Ratnagiri, Osmanabad, Nanded, Nashik, Solapur, Latur, Mumbai, Mulshi, Bhor, and Junnar.
In 2023-24, the program trained over 900 participants in essential computer skills, achieving an impressive 75% attendance rate. Through comprehensive sessions on MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, participants gained practical skills for online transactions such as bill payments and money transfers. Three participants secured employment directly due to their training.
The initiative also featured a Cyber Security Workshop, environmental awareness sessions, soft skills training, and the involvement of 30+ corporate volunteers from two CSR partners. These efforts have broadened career aspirations and significantly enhanced employability.
Building Digital Infrastructure in Schools
Over the past year, 691 desktop computers were donated to 66 schools across Maharashtra, establishing modern computer labs that are transforming digital education for students. These labs have provided students with hands-on learning experiences, opening new digital horizons. Teachers have also upgraded their computer skills, fostering an innovative and supportive learning environment. This initiative highlights our unwavering commitment to advancing digital literacy and empowering students and educators in rural Maharashtra.
United Nations Development Programme’s
Sustainable Goals aligned with Sankalp Digital
