The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) FOO LC2, in partnership with Provincial Government of Aurora, held its Digital Literacy and Learning English Application for Pinoys (LEAP) training in PEACE Center, Baler, Aurora last August 14-18.
20 persons with disability from the Provincial Welfare and Development Office attended the training, wherein 8 were deaf and mute. These PWDs have little to no knowledge in using the computer and its features. According to them, the training is very helpful for their learning. This can be a source of their livelihood especially in the field of Virtual Assistance and Online Jobs.
Jovie Pranada, one of the PWDs said,”Hindi pa po ako marunong magbukas ng computer. Sa totoo lamang, ngayon lang ako humawak. [Dahil sa training na ito,] natutunan ko po mag open at saka gumamit nito.” (The truth is, I still don’t know how to open the computer. It is only now that I got to use it. Yet [because of this] I already know how to open and use it.)
The 5-day training covered Digital Literacy modules based on intel easy steps which includes parts of the computer and its functions, and Microsoft Office Tools; and LEAP Application from the Tech4ed platform.
LEAP application is a program that helps Filipinos learn the English language through virtual topics in the application. It covers grammar and vocabulary, and speech. The application prepares its users for possible employment which requires English as a necessity.
Ms. Marilou Sindac, Center Manager of PEACE Tech4ed Center, believes that DICT is always supportive for the digital growth of the special sectors, especially the PWDs in Aurora, to be Digitally Literate. She also said that one of DICT’s mission is to have sustainable Tech4ED Centers that caters to all sectors and reaches out even to the farthest part of the country like Aurora Province.
Ms. Sindac also mentioned that she is thankful to DICT because even though Aurora Provincelies within the Mountain ranges of Sierra Madre, there is still dedication to help the PWDs and help them be classified and treated without discrimination for these kinds of opportunities. (DICT)
