More than 170 young people from various parts of Quthing district are currently participating in a computer literacy training programme at the Quthing Digital Community Hub, located within the SOS Children’s Village premises. This transformative initiative marks a significant step toward digital empowerment and youth development in the region.
The training was launched following the arrival of 32 brand new computers, donated earlier this month by ACCA Switzerland to support the development of the digital hub. The donation reflects ACCA’s commitment to promoting inclusive access to digital tools and education, especially in underserved communities.
In an interview with the Agency, Ms. Tšooana Letela, the Youth Officer at SOS Children’s Village Quthing, explained that the programme is designed to equip participants with essential computer skills. These include basic functions such as using word processors, spreadsheets, internet navigation, and digital communication tools. Ms. Letela emphasized that the skills gained will help the participants perform everyday tasks more efficiently and open up opportunities in both formal employment and entrepreneurship.
She added that the training is particularly timely, as digital skills are increasingly becoming a requirement in many sectors, from administration and retail to small business management. By offering hands-on computer training, the hub aims to bridge the digital divide and empower youth with tools that can improve their future prospects.
Participants, who range from secondary school graduates to unemployed youth, have expressed enthusiasm about the training. Many see it as a valuable opportunity to enhance their job-readiness and learn skills that were previously out of reach due to limited access to technology in their communities.
The Quthing Digital Community Hub has also created a safe and supportive environment for learning, with trainers guiding participants through practical exercises and real-life scenarios. The long-term goal is to extend the training to more youth across the district and eventually incorporate advanced modules, such as coding, graphic design, and digital marketing.
This initiative stands as a promising example of how targeted partnerships and community-based programmes can make a real difference in rural and underserved areas. With the support of organizations like ACCA Switzerland and local institutions like SOS Children’s Village, young people in Quthing are gaining the digital tools they need to build brighter, more connected futures.
