NIIT Foundation, in collaboration with Ciena, has successfully impacted the lives of more than 10,000 individuals through its digital empowerment program to bridge the digital divide. The initiative provides much-needed digital literacy and IT skills to underserved communities, enhancing their employability and economic prospects.
The program primarily targets individuals between the ages of 14 and 60, offering a range of courses, including basic digital literacy, IT education, and cybersecurity. In addition to the core digital training, the program includes specialised courses in IoT development and video conferencing consultation, providing participants with cutting-edge skills to navigate the digital world.
To address the ongoing need for digital empowerment, NIIT Foundation and Ciena are expanding their efforts, planning to reach an additional 8,500 beneficiaries in Faridabad, Haryana. The expansion will introduce new courses aligned with emerging digital trends to ensure learners stay competitive in the fast-evolving job market.
According to India Education Diary, the digital literacy program is part of a larger strategy that includes partnerships with NGOs like YuWaah and Spandana Sphoorty Financial Limited, as well as support from other organisations, such as Indus Towers. These collaborations have been instrumental in providing resources and infrastructure to make the program a success.
Feedback from the program's beneficiaries has been overwhelmingly positive. Many participants have reported significant improvements in their digital confidence, along with increased employment opportunities due to the new skills they have gained.
This initiative represents an important step toward closing the digital divide in India and contributing to the nation’s goal of inclusive growth through education and skill development.
