The Orange Foundation has successfully bridged the digital divide for 150 young Liberians through its digital literacy program. Liberia’s telecommunications giant, Orange Liberia, through the foundation in collaboration with SOS Children’s Villages, has bridged the digital divide by training 150 young people, of which 100 beneficiaries are from SOS Children’s Villages and 50 beneficiaries are residents of the community, promoting inclusiveness.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, Orange Foundation Liberia’s Senior Program Manager, Uomah Witherspoon, said that Orange Liberia is committed not only to taking from Liberians through the purchase of cards and other products but also to giving back through the Orange Foundation, which is providing digital literacy throughout the country. The foundation is working with different universities through the Orange Clubs, noting that digital education is the key to empowerment are the new goals for every society.
She emphasized the importance of working with Liberians from the communities and schools to advance in the new technological innovations, calling on graduates to take advantage of the Orange Digital Center, which offers different programs free of charge.
She is quoted as saying, ‘The world has been waiting for you. Go out and make the change. You now have the tools; go and open those laptops because the village is behind you.’ She appreciates SOS Children’s Villages for the cohorts and encourages female participants to step up to the plate and take charge.
Meanwhile, the interim President of SOS Children’s Villages, B. Nehemiah Yeaney, said one of the big milestones for young people in their journey to become independent and successful in this rapidly evolving digital age is that skills like digital literacy are not just tools; they are gateways to new opportunities.
“They empower young people to innovate, solve problems, and connect with the world in meaningful ways, enabling them to become entrepreneurs, engineers, and social advocates. Digital skills are a powerful ally for young people,” he added.
“Our program in Liberia is to ensure that children and young people succeed in life and become contributing members of their society and the country at large. In Liberia, we are working towards this direction in collaboration with the government and other stakeholders, thanking the Orange Foundation for the opportunity.”
