Notice Board - News

Funding to increase digital literacy and connection

Department of Internal Affairs,

In May 2010, Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Tariana Turia announced funding of $8.345 million to increase digital literacy and connection in communities over the next three years.

The Department of Internal Affairs has now signed agreements with 2020 Communications Trust and the Computer Clubhouse Trust to deliver two proven, community-based training models - Computers in Homes and the Computer Clubhouse - to educate and empower communities to access digital technology.

The Computers in Homes programme provides parents from low income families with basic computer training at the schools their children attend. Once they have completed the training, families receive a computer, ongoing ICT support, and a free Internet connection for six months. Families are also given access to a subsidised Internet connection and further training. The funding will allow 2020 Communications Trust to deliver the programme to 3000 more families over the next three years.

Computer Clubhouse is a free, after-school learning environment where local youth can use technology to work on projects and build ICT skills. The Clubhouse is an internationally-recognised learning model that provides a safe, creative place where young people work with mentors, explore ideas and build skills through using ICT technology. The digital literacy and connection funding will allow the Computer Clubhouse Trust to develop two new Clubhouses, and maintain three existing ones.

Both programmes will be delivered in partnership with other organisations that will provide a range of support including funding, advice and technical assistance.

For more information on Computers in Homes visit: http://www.computersinhomes.org.nz/

For more information on Computer Clubhouse visit: http://www.computerclubhouse.org.nz/

 

Contact person	Department of Internal Affairs
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Website address	http://www.dia.govt.nz/
Submitted by	MG