A new program has been launched in the Illawarra region of Australia to aid migrant and refugee women in improving their digital skills. The initiative, funded by the federal Department of Social Services, has allocated $20,000 to the Illawarra Multicultural Services (IMS) organization to develop and implement this program. The focus of the initiative is to enhance digital literacy among migrant and refugee women, particularly those from the Karen, Karenni, Chin, and Burmese communities hailing from Myanmar.
The project recognizes the importance of digital skills in today’s fast-paced technological world. By providing training and support, the program aims to empower women from diverse backgrounds and equip them with the necessary tools to navigate and thrive in the digital realm.
The Illawarra region, located in New South Wales, has a significant immigrant and refugee population. This program specifically targets women within these communities as they often face additional barriers when it comes to acquiring digital skills due to language or cultural differences.
Through workshops, training sessions, and mentoring opportunities, the program aims to improve digital literacy by teaching skills such as computer basics, internet usage, online communication, and navigating online platforms. By building these foundational skills, the program hopes to empower women to access online resources, engage in e-commerce, connect with their communities, seek employment opportunities, and enhance their overall digital participation.
The funding provided by the Department of Social Services will enable IMS to develop tailored content and materials that are culturally and linguistically appropriate for the target audience. This approach recognizes the importance of creating inclusive and accessible learning experiences that address the unique needs and backgrounds of the participants.
By focusing on enhancing digital literacy among migrant and refugee women, this program seeks to promote social inclusion, digital equity, and economic empowerment in the Illawarra region. As technology continues to play an increasingly vital role in modern society, equipping women from diverse backgrounds with digital skills is an important step towards fostering their integration and success in their new communities.
