Telenor, Grameenphone, and Plan International have joined forces in empowering more than 2.35 million marginalised women and youth through "Digital Inclusion: Safe Digital Space for Girls and Youth Project".
The initiative aims to enhance digital literacy, skills, resilience and create a safe online environment for the women and youth who often face socio-economic challenges, said a media statement on Thursday.
As a part of this project, a team from Telenor, Grameenphone, and Plan International made a three-day visit to Savar, Sylhet, Moulvibazar, and Sunamganj on May 19, 20, and 21, respectively, reads the release.
During their visit to Savar, Moulvibazar, and Sunamganj, the representatives engaged directly with project participants, gaining valuable insights into how access to digital tools and resources is positively impacting their lives.
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Moreover, under this project a dedicated effort has been made to bring positive change in the lives of eight marginalized populations: ethnic and religious minorities, people with disabilities, tea garden workers, transgender, people, people affected by climate change (Haor and Chor), female-headed household, street children and others as identified by the National Social Security Strategy; by equipping them with digital and online safety skills.
The interventions include training on digital skills and online safety through in-person training, and awareness for local leaders and youth-led campaigns in the communities, radio programmes.
Yasir Azman, chief executive officer (CEO) of Grameenphone, said, “I am happy to be part of this program dedicated to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that no one is left behind in Bangladesh's journey towards a digitally inclusive society. Our initiative will equip marginalized women and youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today's digital landscape, empowering them to seize opportunities and contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.
Kabita Bose, country director of Plan International Bangladesh, said, “As a children and girls rights organization, it is our pleasure to partner with Grameenphone and Telenor in introducing a program which addresses a rising issue of online safety and digital inclusion.”
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Plan International Bangladesh along with its partners aims to work towards equity and equality for all children and youth in all their diversities and this initiative is a milestone for achieving that target, she added.
Manisha Dogra, head of external relations at Telenor Asia, said “In today's world where the majority of the population relies on mobile phones for internet access, digital literacy is a critical skill. It's not just about knowing how to use a computer or smartphone; but being able to navigate the online world effectively
and safely to access essential services, educational resources, and employment opportunities. By acquiring digital skills, the program participants can have a significant impact on Bangladesh's growing digital economy. These skills empower marginalized communities to actively participate in the socio-economic development of the country”.
Alexander Letelier, Advisor-YEE and Digital, Plan International Norway, said “Under the project, till the date, 772,347 people have received training or education on digital skills like mobile operations, online safety, e-commerce, and navigating government services. Moreover, the outreach through community radio has extended to 520,000 people, broadening our impact to even the most remote areas.”