NIIT Foundation, together with Ciena, a networking systems, services, and software company, has launched an initiative called the “Digital Empowerment Program through the Digital Transformation Vehicle (DTV)” initiative in Faridabad, Haryana .This program is a mobile education and training program that aims to provide digital literacy and skills to underserved and remote communities, with the goal of narrowing the digital divide.
The initiative features a mobile training facility equipped with 16 computers, internet connectivity, and comprehensive training materials. Certified trainers, including an IT trainer and a mobilizer, who encourages individuals to enrol in the program, travel with the vehicle to provide hands-on support. The program offers customizable courses tailored to community needs, covering digital literacy, financial literacy, and vocational skills.
Since its inception, the program has made significant strides in impacting lives. The DTV has reached 8,667 beneficiaries, while the Hole in the Wall Learning Stations, which are installed in the villages after the DTV departs, have engaged 2,190 individuals. The initiative has successfully installed 12 Hole in the Wall Learning Stations across various locations from August 2023 to March 2024, promoting digital literacy and self-directed learning.
Highlighting the need for such initiatives, Amit Malik, Vice President, Ciena India, said, “In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, it has become increasingly crucial to equip our youth with the skills they need to thrive and navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively. Our collaboration with NIIT Foundation allows us to manifest our commitment to narrowing the digital divide while also encouraging skill development – creating meaningful opportunities for communities far and wide.”
Further highlighting the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, Charu Kapoor, Country Director at NIIT Foundation, noted, “Leveraging the expertise and resources of the private sector, paired with an NGO’s reach, and understanding of the demographic landscape paves the way for maximising the impact of such initiatives. Our collaborative efforts with Ciena, in this regard, have made substantial strides since its commencement and we aim to continually stride towards effectively prepare the youth for the highly competitive job market in our ever-evolving world.”
Looking ahead, NIIT Foundation and Ciena aim to expand the program’s reach across Faridabad (Haryana) to impact more than 8,500 beneficiaries, introducing new courses aligned with emerging digital trends and exploring further opportunities to empower the youth and allow them to confidently steer through the rapidly digitising world.