Digital Literacy Project – Update
In March 2021, Sanctuary partnered with NSS and started a fundraiser to support the temporary employment of a member of the Ezidi community as a “digital connections officer”. This role would involve assisting refugee families with technological setups and issues. Thanks to the generosity of the Armidale community, the money was raised and a Akram Kudeedah was selected for the positition. This project has so far been a huge success, with Akram greatly exceeding expectations.
In the six months he has been working, Akram has assisted over 60 families with both hardware and software issues. These include helping set up and use important websites and apps, such as MyGov and ServiceNSW, teaching people how to do banking and pay bills online, and setting up email accounts and explaining their use. He has also helped families with setting up their devices and choosing internet plans. In addition Akram gave a talk to the students at TAFE about the MyGov website, produced a video about how to use a QR code and its importance, and made connections with local tech Businesses. The report presentation can be found here: Digital Connections Officer – 2021 presentation
Sanctuary hopes to continue to support this position due to continuing requests for help. In the short term, Sanctuary is looking to fund a further 2 months of his contract. With the likelihood of new arrivals and a need to focus on digital security issues, we ae looking for appropriate grants that would fund the position until the end of next year.
If you would like to give to this project, head to the donate section of our website.