Free Digital Training for Seniors, Youth Up for Grabs as NTRC Pushes to Close Saint Lucia’s Digital Divide
Hundreds of Saint Lucians, from senior citizens struggling with digital banking to young people eager to sharpen their tech skills, are being targeted under a major national push to boost digital literacy through the Universal Service Fund (USF). The initiative was showcased Friday during the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission’s (NTRC) telecommunications fair held in observance […] The post Free Digital Training for Seniors, Youth Up for Grabs as NTRC Pushes to Close Saint Lucia’s Digital Divide appeared first on Saint Lucia Daily Post.
Black News 
Hundreds of Saint Lucians, from senior citizens struggling with digital banking to young people eager to sharpen their tech skills, are being targeted under a major national push to boost digital literacy through the Universal Service Fund (USF).
The initiative was showcased Friday during the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission’s (NTRC) telecommunications fair held in observance of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, celebrated annually on May 17. Members of the public were invited to register for a range of completely free digital training programmes designed to make technology more accessible across all demographics.
Sandra Jones, Administrator of the Universal Service Fund, said the programme is part of an aggressive effort to advance full digital inclusion in Saint Lucia, particularly among groups that are often left behind in an increasingly technology-driven society.
While many technology initiatives tend to focus heavily on young people, Jones explained that the USF is also prioritising senior citizens, especially individuals aged 56 and older, many of whom face difficulties adapting to rapidly evolving digital systems.
“We are also aware of the deficiencies, the fact that they are not knowledgeable [and] their digital literacy is very low when it comes to use of devices,” Jones stated.
She pointed specifically to the growing importance of online banking and digital services, noting that many elderly citizens risk being excluded from essential services if they are not properly equipped with the necessary digital skills. To address this, specialised trainers have been engaged to guide seniors through practical digital literacy training aimed at helping them confidently navigate modern technology.
The USF is simultaneously continuing its youth-focused technology programmes. Friday’s fair also highlighted previous initiatives such as the Girls in ICT programme held in April, as well as the Boogatech training programme geared toward equipping young men with critical technology skills.
Meanwhile, the Fund announced that its highly anticipated Summer Tech Programme is scheduled to run from July to August as part of its continued nationwide educational outreach.
Established under the Telecommunications Act 2000, the Universal Service Fund serves as a key mechanism for expanding access to telecommunications and digital services throughout Saint Lucia. Managed under the NTRC and funded by telecommunications providers, the Fund supports underserved communities and public institutions through investments in internet access, public telephony services, and specialised connectivity solutions for schools, healthcare facilities, and persons living with disabilities.
The post Free Digital Training for Seniors, Youth Up for Grabs as NTRC Pushes to Close Saint Lucia’s Digital Divide appeared first on Saint Lucia Daily Post.
