Digital Scout

TAFA | Crowdfunding Platform

This program aims to empower underserved communities in Ethiopia by training and deploying a network of "community-based digital scouts." These scouts will act as intermediaries, bridging the digital divide by providing essential digital literacy training, supporting community access to digital technologies, and identifying and addressing local digital needs.

Key Objectives:
  • Enhance digital literacy: Equip community members with essential digital skills, including basic computer literacy, internet usage, online safety, and digital communication.
  • Improve digital access: Facilitate access to affordable and reliable internet connectivity, digital devices, and digital resources within underserved communities.
  • Identify local digital needs: Conduct community assessments to identify specific digital needs and challenges, such as access to online services, digital skills gaps, and cybersecurity concerns.
  • Develop and implement local digital solutions: Work with community members to develop and implement innovative digital solutions to address local challenges, such as e-agriculture, e-health, and e-commerce.
  • Promote digital inclusion: Foster a more inclusive and equitable digital society by ensuring that all members of the community, regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic status, have equal access to and benefit from digital opportunities.
Program Components:
  • Scout Recruitment and Training: Recruit and train local community members as digital scouts. Training will cover a range of topics, including digital literacy, community mobilization, project management, and basic troubleshooting.
  • Community Outreach and Mobilization: Conduct community outreach activities to raise awareness about the importance of digital literacy and access to digital technologies.
  • Digital Skills Training Workshops: Organize and conduct regular digital skills training workshops for community members, tailored to their specific needs and interests.
  • Community Digital Hub Establishment: Establish and support community-based digital hubs equipped with computers, internet access, and other necessary resources to facilitate digital learning and access.
  • Digital Solutions Development and Implementation: Support community-led initiatives to develop and implement innovative digital solutions to address local challenges.
Expected Outcomes:
  • Increased digital literacy rates among underserved communities.
  • Improved access to digital technologies and resources for community members.
  • Enhanced digital skills and knowledge among community leaders and entrepreneurs.
  • Development and implementation of locally relevant digital solutions to address community needs.
  • Increased participation of underserved communities in the digital economy.
Success Factors:
  • Strong community engagement and ownership of the program.
  • Effective collaboration with local partners, including government agencies, educational institutions, and private sector organizations.
  • Sustainable funding mechanisms to ensure the long-term viability of the program.
  • Continuous monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation of the program based on feedback and results.