In Diverse Company’s Post

https://lnkd.in/gjXbTfrC An interesting article about the ongoing barriers and opportunities related to digital access in Canada, particularly focusing on underrepresented groups such as women, newcomers, Indigenous peoples, and other marginalized communities. It important that educators recognize the issues surrounding inequitable access to technology for students. In a tech-driven world, it is important that we incorporate #edutech in our classrooms, but we need to help minimize accessibility gaps. Here are a few things to consider: 1) Developing Digital Literacy - Teach Essential Skills: Digital literacy should be treated as a fundamental part of the curriculum. This includes basic skills like using a computer, navigating the internet, and understanding online safety. - Incorporate Critical Thinking: Help students evaluate information, identify biases, and think critically about the digital tools and content they encounter online. - Provide Hands-On Experience: Allow students to practice using various software programs and online platforms to complete assignments, explore creative projects, and engage in real-world problem-solving. 2) Provide Equal Access to Technology - Advocate for Resources: Work with school administrations to ensure students have access to the necessary technology, whether through school-owned devices, community partnerships, or government programs like Computers for Schools. - Offer After-School Programs: Create opportunities for students who don’t have access to technology at home to use school computers, tablets, or other devices during after-school hours. - Leverage Community Resources: Partner with libraries or local organizations that may offer free or subsidized access to digital tools and internet connections for families in need. 3) Advocate for Digital Inclusion - Raise Awareness: Educate your school community, including parents, about the importance of digital inclusion and the long-term benefits of closing the digital divide for underrepresented groups. - Engage in Professional Development: Attend workshops or collaborate with colleagues to stay informed on how to best support students in navigating the digital world, particularly those from marginalized communities. 4) Create a Safe and Supportive Digital Environment - Address Online Safety and Harassment: Educate students on how to stay safe online, protect their privacy, and recognize cyberbullying or harassment. - Teach them how to report inappropriate behaviour. - Foster Positive Digital Citizenship: Encourage students to engage respectfully and responsibly in online communities, promoting inclusion and empathy toward others. Ultimately, by building inclusion into the design and development of digital technologies, schools can take meaningful steps toward bridging the digital divide. #EDTECH #INCLUSIVEDESIGN #EDUCATION #DIGITALLITERACY #EQUITABLEACCESS #COMMUNITY

International Youth Day is celebrated on August 12 each year to raise awareness about the issues facing young people globally and to promote their engagement in society. The day emphasizes the importance of youth participation in decision-making processes and aims to highlight the challenges they encounter, such as unemployment, education, mental health, and social inclusion. The theme "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development" emphasizes the vital role that digital technologies play in empowering young people to contribute to sustainable development. The theme highlights that by harnessing digital technologies, young people can transform their online engagement into tangible progress towards sustainable development. It calls for investments in digital literacy, access to technology, and support for youth-led initiatives that promote sustainability. By bridging the gap between online activities ("clicks") and real-world impact ("progress"), we can empower youth to be leaders in creating a more sustainable future.

The internet serves as an invaluable portal to education and a plethora of opportunities, yet it is disheartening to recognize that approximately 2.7 billion individuals around the world remain without access to this essential resource. This digital divide highlights the urgent need to promote digital literacy and expand connectivity to underserved communities. Access to the internet can transform lives by providing educational resources, opening up new economic opportunities, and fostering social connections. For instance, in regions where internet access is limited, students are often deprived of the vast array of online educational materials and courses that can enhance their learning and skill development. Moreover, entrepreneurs in these areas miss out on the chance to reach a global market and innovate beyond geographical constraints. By advocating for digital equality and striving to bridge this gap, we can empower these communities, ensuring that everyone has the chance to participate in the digital economy and benefit from the knowledge economy. Let us come together to make digital inclusion a reality for all. #DigitalEquality #BridgingTheGap

The intersection of digital development and social development is a burgeoning topic in our rapidly evolving world, and its implications on education policy and vocational education are particularly noteworthy. As we continue to integrate technology into our everyday lives, we must ask ourselves: How can we ensure that digital development enhances, rather than exacerbates, social inequalities? According to recent research, education policies that promote digital literacy and skills development are crucial in addressing this issue. But the question remains - how do we implement these policies effectively and equitably? In my work, I've noticed that the most successful initiatives are those that take a holistic approach, considering the diverse needs of various communities and sectors. Comprehensive public policies, which include robust human resource development and continuous capacity building, are key. However, it's not just about developing skills. It's also about fostering an environment that encourages sustainable innovation. Our efforts should not be confined to the classroom or the workplace. They should permeate every facet of society, from our homes to our public spaces, and even to our digital spaces. As we continue to explore this complex terrain, let's remember that our ultimate goal is not just to create a more digitally advanced society, but a more socially inclusive and equitable one as well. I invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on this subject, as I believe that collective wisdom and collaboration are essential in navigating the challenges and opportunities of digital and social development. #DigitalDevelopment #SocialDevelopment #EducationPolicy #SkillsDevelopment #HumanResourceDevelopment #SustainableInnovation

On International Youth Day, it’s vital to reflect on the pivotal role of youth in shaping our future. I've observed the incredible dynamism and innovative spirit of young people driving technological and social progress. Youth isn't just an age—it's a mindset. Young individuals are at the forefront of technological creation, challenging the status quo and bringing fresh perspectives vital for innovation. This phase in life is critical; it’s when creativity and the courage to explore new possibilities are at their peak. The interaction between different generations, combining the wisdom of the experienced with the agility of the youth, fosters diverse thinking and problem-solving. This collaboration is essential for the development of societies and industries alike. This International Youth Day, let’s pledge to empower our young people—providing platforms for expression and opportunities for impactful contributions. Their energy and optimism are not just revitalizing industries but are also shaping a more innovative future. Share your experiences and ideas on integrating young talents into your industries. How are you engaging the potential of this transformative generation? #InternationalYouthDay #YouthEmpowerment #FutureLeaders #Innovation #GenerationalCollaboration #TechForGood #YouthInTech

🗓️ 12 August marks International Youth Day 2024. Today, we recognise the dynamic role that young people play in the realm of digital adoption and innovation. They are the trailblazers crafting #sustainable solutions for the complex challenges our world faces. At TNO, we are working on methods that contribute to a healthy, safe and promising growing-up environment for young people. We understand the importance of their contributions in this #digital transformation era. Read more about TNO's #youth programmes ➡️ https://tno.social/fb2

Today, on International Youth Day, we honor the incredible potential of young people across the globe. This year’s theme, "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development," resonates deeply with our mission to empower individuals with the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to create lasting change. In a world increasingly driven by technology, digital skills are more critical than ever. They open doors to innovation, education, and economic growth, enabling young minds to tackle the pressing challenges of our time, from climate change to social inequality. At Stewards Arise Foundation, we are committed to equipping the next generation with the digital literacy and technical skills they need to navigate and lead in the digital age. Through our programs, we provide access to cutting-edge technology, mentorship, and educational resources, ensuring that youth from all backgrounds can harness the power of digital tools to create sustainable solutions. By investing in digital education and sustainable development, we are not just preparing young people for the jobs of tomorrow, we are empowering them to become the innovators, leaders, and changemakers of today. Together, let's celebrate and uplift the voices of young people everywhere, ensuring that their impact transcends generations. #InternationalYouthDay #YouthDigitalPathways #SustainableDevelopment #EmpowerYouth #DigitalSkills #FutureLeaders

In 2022, three-quarters of the global population aged 15 to 24 were using the Internet. As "digital natives", young people are leading the charge in the digital innovations that are transforming the world and offering unprecedented opportunities to accelerate sustainable development and advance the Sustainable Development Goals. The role youth plays in driving change and creating solutions is nowhere more apparent than in educational settings and we are proud that our member schools are all bustling hubs of activity in which young people are encouraged and supported to adopt digital technologies and innovate with them for the betterment of society. On International #YouthDay, we celebrate the contributions youth are making in this area and the inspiring collaboration that they demonstrate in working towards a more sustainable future. #education #technology #SDGs United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs International Telecommunication Union UN-Habitat (United Nations Human Settlements Programme) Internet Governance Forum Secretariat

As we celebrate #InternationalYouthDay themed "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Pathways for Sustainable Development" let us remember the essential nature of digital skills in today's era, and strive to bridge the digital divide in education so future generations are equipped with the needed skills to compete for global opportunities, while advancing sustainable development in our society👌 #FromClicksToProgress #InternationalYouthDay #InternationalYouthDay2024

12th August - International Youth Day ! International Youth Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating the vital role of young people in society and recognising their contributions to development. It's a day to acknowledge their potential and achievements while also addressing the challenges they face. It's not just about highlighting problems but also about celebrating young people as essential partners in building a brighter future. The theme for this year is "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development." This theme highlights the intersection of youth, digital innovation, and sustainable development, emphasising the crucial role young people play in using digital technologies to drive sustainable progress. International Youth Day is highly significant as it offers a chance to recognise and celebrate the valuable qualities of young people and their potential to shape the future of nations. It also serves as a reminder of the challenges youth face globally, such as educational barriers, limited access to healthcare, and economic instability. The day encourages collaborative efforts to address these issues and highlights the importance of empowering young people and providing them with the necessary resources for their development. Amb. Dunston P