THE CHALLENGE

In remote villages in Vietnam, many schools teach computing without any computers! In Ninh Phuoc, for example, out of 10 colleges, only 3 have a few computers. The pupils try to take notes but without access even to a keyboard. The lack of access to computers puts rural students at a great disadvantage. Students in cities have many more opportunities to learn computer skills, as well as English skills, and consequently, a better chance of entering university or professional schools. Girls from poor, rural communities are held back by a lack of access to computers and proper digital skills training.

Furthermore, the parents of girls in poor, rural communities are reluctant to let their daughters leave their village. Girls tend to drop out of school before they complete high school and to get married at a young age. Sadly, these factors keep girls from poor, rural communities trapped in a vicious cyle of poverty.

The solutions we're proposing

W4’s field partner Mekong Plus supports pupils’ access to digital skills training in rural areas by equipping schools with basic computers (approximately $175 per computer) and by training IT maintenance technicians. A single computer can benefit dozens of students! The schools follow the usual curriculum which includes computer skills training but of course, with access to a computer and a keyboard, digital skills training is far more effective.

See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNaA4WTXBQk

THE IMPACT OF YOUR GIVING

When girls acquire basic computer skills, they have a much better chance of continuing their education and accessing high school, professional schools and even university. Equipped with foundational digital skills and able to access and navigate the Internet and online educational resources, students are also able to improve their English language skills. Concretely, your giving will help to fund computers and IT maintenance training for teachers in schools in poor, rural areas in Vietnam. This will enable girls in poor, rural communities to develop essential digital skills that will boost their chances of succeeding in their education and, in future, facilitate young women’s access to formal employment.