Minister for the Economy and Industry Silvio Schembri launched the ‘ICT 4 the Elderly’ project led by Tech.mt The ‘ICT 4 the Elderly’ initiative aims to provide a path for individuals between the ages of 55 and 74 to improve their above-basic digital competencies and become aware of the internet’s numerous opportunities.
This Erasmus+-funded strategic partnership project brings together five distinct nations from different stages of the digital gap spectrum, namely Switzerland, Germany, Slovenia, Belgium, and Malta.
“Through the project’s outputs, Tech.mt is providing an opportunity to target what has become known as online ageing, this through a dedicated online academy and training programme that delves into some of the various ways in which the internet can play an essential role in improving the quality of life of this cohort of the population. A recent report by the European Commission showed that only 13% of those aged between 55 and 74 have the basic digital skills. While the digital divide among the elderly is not a new phenomenon, the Covid-19 pandemic has made it obvious that prompt action is required to address social exclusion amongst those cohorts of society that lack digital skills,” said Minister Schembri.
As a means of fostering smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth, education and training are prominently included in the ‘Europe 2020 Strategy’. The elderly cohort is the most at a remove from learning, but their engagement is crucial to improve their day-to-day life. The overall expected results of implementing this learning strategy within the ICT 4 the Elderly project framework are increased awareness of the importance of achieving a digitally inclusive society, skill enhancement for the elderly, and better direct integration of the elderly into modern society.
“Tech.mt is also focusing its energies on engaging the elderly community. The elderly are major stakeholders who should not be left out from using digital technology, thus encouraging their participation in the digital economy is crucial,” remarked Ms Dana Farrugia, CEO at Tech.mt.
It is important to encourage the use of digital solutions among the senior strata, and various stakeholders are performing the appropriate measures through this initiative to guarantee that the elderly population is acquainted with such resources.
Online socializing activities specifically designed for elderly people enable social contact and inclusion. This introduction to online exercise programmes will include live workshop exposure as well as homework activities.
Source: Office of the Prime Minister