Digital Access Program In England Strengthens Inclusive Digital Ecosystem In Eastern Indonesia

The British Embassy in Jakarta, through the UK Digital Access Program, is partnering with local implementer BerdayaBareng to conduct the third phase of digital and financial literacy training for women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PwDs) in three new regions of Eastern Indonesia: Central Sulawesi, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), and West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).

Launched in 2022, this program aims to create an inclusive digital and creative community in Eastern Indonesia by enhancing digital skills and technology access for marginalized groups. Previous phases have reached other areas in Eastern Indonesia, including Makassar, Gowa, Maros, Manado, Kendari, Balikpapan, and Samarinda.

This third phase involves 10 local facilitators and 500 participants who took part in online training in October 2024. The training covers basic digital literacy, creativity development, and effective communication. It will continue with in-person sessions from November 11 to 15, 2024, focusing on intermediate digital and financial literacy. Out of the 500 participants, 100 will be selected as facilitators to share their knowledge and skills, creating a ripple effect in their communities.

What sets this phase apart is the pentahelix approach, which includes the involvement of civil servants (ASN) in the training. Their participation is expected to bridge the digital transformation initiatives between the government and the community, supporting sustainable systemic change.

Matthew Downing, the Deputy Ambassador of the UK to Indonesia and Timor Leste, stated: “The UK Digital Access Program recognizes the crucial role of access and digital literacy in empowering marginalized groups, and this series of training is a continuation of our efforts to bridge the digital divide in Eastern Indonesia. As we celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations between the UK and Indonesia, I hope this collaboration strengthens a digitally inclusive future.”

Major General Hasanuddin (Ret.), Acting Governor of NTB, stated: "We see this program aligns with our mission to enhance community welfare and empower groups that lack optimal access to digital and financial literacy. We hope the Digital Access Program will provide lasting benefits and serve as a model for future initiatives."

Dr. Andriko Noto Susanto, Acting Governor of NTT, added: "The presence of non-governmental organizations reflects collaboration for community welfare. With a spirit of promoting inclusive economic growth, we support community-based solutions to address various challenges in NTT."

Dra. Novalina, Acting Governor of Central Sulawesi, expressed: "The Digital Access Program opens opportunities and creates an inclusive environment for the people of Central Sulawesi. This approach is expected to have a direct and broad impact on sustainable economic development."

Pratiwi Hamdhana AM, Co-founder of BerdayaBareng, noted: "This year, the Digital Access Program has a wider impact. By expanding the program's reach to NTT, NTB, and Central Sulawesi, we can create a digital ecosystem that empowers women, youth, and people with disabilities to actively participate in the digital economy."

Note:

- The Digital Access Program (DAP) is an initiative by the UK government aimed at promoting inclusive, affordable, safe, and friendly digital access for marginalized populations in Indonesia.

- Berdaya Bareng is an inclusive foundation from the East that aims to empower women, youth, and people with disabilities through training, job/business access, and other activities related to the SDGs.

Tag: Digital Ecosystem East Nusa Tenggara Eastern Indonesia