The ability to access and use the Internet, computers, and related technology has become essential in today’s world. Technology is transforming the most important areas of our lives, from employment to education, to health. In employment, nearly all major companies/employers post job openings and take applications exclusively online, and seemingly 80% of jobs in the next decade are projected to require digital skills. In education, students need digital technologies to complete homework and parents are increasingly expected to engage with teachers and school officials online. In healthcare services in many countries, patients can now communicate with their doctors via email and video calls and view their own medical records online. And yet an estimated 95% of Liberians still lack Internet access at home, 90% lacks the knowledge and skills, with people with disabilities, and lowest-income or No income residents most at-risk, especially disadvantaged young  people (Liberians).

In sum, the digital divide is a combination of several different issues, with digitally excluded individuals facing different barriers, like the lack of electricity, internet. Some don’t know how to use technology at all. Others have the basic digital skills but need situational help, maybe navigating a complicated job portal or online learning skills Finally, there are those with all the skills but are unable to afford adequate connectivity and devices. Like a workforce program helping high-barrier job seekers gain employment, a successful digital equity program needs to identify and address the barriers specific to each digitally excluded person.  “Digital equity” is the idea that everyone should have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy, and economy.

It is in this light that the YMCA is collaborating with HP LIFE to provide the platform for all to have access to quality digital resources and opportunities.  We are working to mend the divide where fewer people have digital knowledge and skills in Liberia as compare to other countries. YMCA is therefore working with HP Foundation/HP LIFE to accelerate digital equity, where young Liberians can now have access to quality  online learning opportunity and resources at No Cost.  We are thus encouraging you to take advantage of this opportunity, come and acquire skills by enrolling in the HP LIFE-YMCA FREE Business Courses as register with the YMCA Polytechnic.

The sooner you do, the better opportunity and chances  for employment.