In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at promoting digital inclusion and empowering women, the National Youth Commission (NAYCOM) and Orange Foundation Sierra Leone have certified over 100 young women and girls in digital and entrepreneurial skills across Kenema and Makeni.
This collaborative effort aligns with the human capital development agenda championed by President Bio, addressing the pressing need for digital literacy and economic empowerment among marginalized communities.
The Women’s Digital and Learning Center program, a cornerstone of this initiative, targets young women and girls who have faced premature school dropout or live in abject poverty. By equipping them with essential digital skills and entrepreneurship training, the program seeks to foster self-reliance and create pathways to sustainable livelihoods.
NAYCOM Commissioner Ahmed Atata Mansaray Esq commended the graduates for their successful completion of the training. He emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative, stating, “This program is tailored towards empowering women and young girls with digital and entrepreneurial skills so they can be self-reliant, aligning with President Bio’s human capital development agenda.”
Echoing the commissioner’s sentiments, Sia Margaret Mondeh, the program manager of the Women’s Digital Center at Orange Foundation SL, encouraged the graduates to leverage their newly acquired skills.
“Showcase what you’ve learned during the training, as it might open doors for you in the corporate world,” she urged, underscoring the importance of continuous practice and humility.
This initiative highlights the transformative power digital literacy and entrepreneurship training for marginalized communities have on women’s economic empowerment and poverty reduction.
By providing free access to digital and entrepreneurial education, NAYCOM and Orange Foundation Sierra Leone have taken a significant step towards empowering women and promoting sustainable development in local communities.
As the graduates embark on their journey, their success stories will undoubtedly inspire and pave the way for further initiatives that foster digital inclusion and economic empowerment.