Bridging the digital divide

Tackling new forms of isolation

Over the past decade, the world has seen an undeniable escalation in the uses of Information and Communication Technologies. There has been a shift in social and professional relations, thus changing the ways in which the cornerstones of society (such as education and employment) function. We believe that today, communities deprived of Internet access suffer a modern form of isolation, and consider access to ICT as a serious development issue.

To help bridge this gap, we create ICT centres that allow isolated communities to access technology for development. A wide spectrum of structures and sectors benefit from activities in TSF’s community centres:

• Local associations working in support of agriculture and the environment;
• NGOs and associations that defend children, women’s and indigenous rights;
• Economic and rural development bodies;
• Local authorities, administration and state services;
• Health services and medical personnel;
• Schools and education organisations.

Actions oriented by the local communities

To transmit our know-how, we train the centres’ users, introducing them to ICT, office equipment, internet and emails, allowing them to apply their skills to their individuals needs.

The younger generations are particularly fond of the more recreational activities that the centres have to offer (such as online games and social networks), but are often unaware of the dangers that internet can pose. We are committed to carrying out awareness sessions to inform children of the risks of internet, ensuring that their practices are safer and more constructive.

Various digital educational content is made available in our centres, ranging from videos and encyclopedias to Massive Online Open Courses (MOOC). Students use these resources to work on their homework, and to help improve the notions that they study in school.

According to the location of the centre, other activities can be developed in relation to local priority subject matters. In our community centres, our aim is to place communities at the heart of solidarity to rise to the challenge of promoting ICT for sustainable development.