Digital literacy classes for people on the move

Refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers currently residing in the temporary reception center Blažuj in Sarajevo – from August 2022 – are attending free computer classes with the support of the Danish Refugee Council, on a daily basis. The program is available to adults interested in digital literacy skills that would help them to develop knowledge on setting up an email account and navigating the internet. Other digital skills that may be advantageous for people on the move to develop include understanding that there are risks in accessing digital technology and they should learn how to mitigate some of these risks, including accessing reputable online resources, identifying scams, and not sharing private information on nonsecure websites.

“Having any educational activity with people on the move can be challenging because of their constant movement. Therefore our aim is to provide computer lectures that are intensive, entertaining, and tailored to the needs of the beneficiaries in their language with a help of DRC cultural mediators and translators. Thanks to an initial skills assessment, people taking part in the capacity-building activity will be divided into two groups – beginners and advanced level,” says Adem Omerović, Community Based Protection Officer, adding that these skills will contribute to the social integration of the people on the move once they arrive to the desired destination.

To ensure effective program implementation, the project employs a flexible approach and enhances interactivity among participants, and so far 36 persons have successfully passed the final exam and received a certificate, all thanks to the ECHO funding.

“This course has provided me with the most practical knowledge related to digital literacy. It was more than useful because it helps me to maintain contact with some family members through email, but also to explore the history and culture of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as about Germany where I want to live in the future. I realize that while I am in Sarajevo, I can prepare myself a bit for German culture, the right of the migrant population, and possibilities to create a better life for me and my family,” said Hassan from Afghanistan.