The digital divide between urban and rural communities is getting narrower as the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology ensures that the young reap the benefits of the digital world.
To motivate this, the ministry will roll out a pilot Digital Computer Literacy Program to five regions following its launch in Tsumkwe.
The program is aimed at increasing digital computer literacy in rural areas.
It is one step towards achieving a 100% digital literacy rate in the country by 2030.
Speaking at the launch, the Deputy Minister of ICT, Emma Theofelus, says Namibia is positioning itself to be a global destination for ICT services, hence the need to drastically increase digital literacy and bridge the digital divide in Namibia.
"We cannot allow technology to exist in our lives and not know how to use that technology. That is why it is important that we, at the MICT ministry, deem it necessary to put in place mechanisms little by little with the little resources we get from the fiscus to ensure that we have digital literacy available in our communities so that they are empowered to use technology to improve their lives."
She says the Digital Computer Literacy Program is a commitment and demonstration by the government to reach out to every Namibian and ensure they have the necessary skills to improve their lives in the digital space.
18 participants who underwent a two-week training program in basic computer literacy were awarded certificates.
The ICT Deputy Minister also handed over laptops to the Tsumkwe Rural ICT Center, courtesy of FNB Namibia.
Speaking at the same event, the councilor for Tsumkwe Constituency, Johannes Hausiku, expressed gratitude towards the ministry for selecting his constituency as the first pilot project.
"I cannot overemphasize the importance of the event, which gives center stage to equipping the disadvantaged adults, learners, and community members in rural areas with basic computer literacy skills."
Chief Tsamkxao ǂOma Boboo of the Ju|`Hoansi Traditional Authority stressed to young people that this is an opportunity for them to improve their skills and use them in the right way.