Digital bridges with YFTC Uganda

Status: Closed

Country: Uganda

Partner: YFTC Uganda

Impact goal: 200 people

About the project

The project aims to enhance two existing youth centers and turn them into Digital Learning hubs within Bidibidi refugee settlement. These hubs will provide refugees and host community youths with access to digital tools, internet connectivity, and digital literacy training. They will serve as learning and skills development centers, empowering refugees to navigate online educational resources and enhance their employability.

Updates

The internet has been installed and running fully in zone 1 a month ago and installation is in the final stage in zone 3. Tablets were procured 4 per location and in use. 

In the last three months implementation of the “Digital Bridges” project, YFTC implemented the project as planned. Two youth centers have been transformed into ICT hubs, Wahda center, located at zone 1, and an innovation center located in zone 3. Both centers now have access to internet connectivity.

Over 10,000 people accessed the internet at the two hubs in the overall project period. Below you can see the overview.

Four focus group discussions were conducted with hub users that empowered them with knowledge on how to use the internet and online learning opportunities. 12 workshops were held, which focused on basic ICT literacy.

The "Digital Bridges" project benefitted over 300 direct beneficiaries, surpassing the initial plan of 200 beneficiaries. Over 10,000 indirectly benefitted from the internet connectivity provided through the project. This was made possible by the high demand for the service, which was evident both during the survey and throughout the implementation of the project.

1. Internet access at the ICT hubs:
   • Over 10,000 people accessed the internet at the two ICT hubs (Wahda Center and Zone 3 Innovation Center) during the reporting period. The internet access allowed individuals to connect with essential online resources, engaged in self-paced learning, and improve their communication and digital skills, with others excited of connecting with their loved once.
2. Workshops and training:
   • 180 people participated in the 12 expert-tutored workshops focused on basic ICT skills, online safety and cyber-security. The workshops helped participants develop essential digital skills, that enabled them to use technology more effectively for work, learning, and personal growth.
3. Focus Group Discussions:
   • 4 focus group discussions were conducted to empower participants with knowledge on responsible internet use and how to take advantage of online learning opportunities. A total 150 beneficiaries, 30 females and 120 males. These discussions educated participants on how to use the internet safely and responsibly, providing them with tools to navigate the digital world and access online learning platforms.
4. Educational Materials Distribution:
   • Printed brochures and learning books were distributed, benefitting approximately 10,000 people who accessed the hubs.

Changes and unforeseen challenges

There were no big changes, apart from the overwhelming number of people who wanted to be part of the project, especially from areas that were not reached through this project.

There were some technical issues with the internet connectivity at the start in zone 3 Innovation center, which caused delays in setting up smooth access for all users. There was a high demand for the services, and a lot more people showed up than initially expected.

There were a few challenges with user engagement. Some beneficiaries initially had a hard time adapting to the tools and use of internet resources. To address this, YFTC provided extra support to make sure everyone were comfortable and included.

About the partner

YFTC is a youth led organization, devoted to promoting peace-building, youth empowerment, and advocacy activities.

YFTC began as a community-based initiative with its headquarters at Zone 4 annex, Bidibidi refugee settlement. The organization promotes youth, women, and girls’ empowerment through the use of technology to create socio-economic innovation for women and girls. They also facilitate access to information to both refugee and host community while addressing grass root concerns pertaining to conflicts within the communities. Ultimately, they work towards creating an environment conducive for children, youth and women.