KATHMANDU, JANUARY 22 With the objective of enhancing digital literacy and reducing Nepal's digital divide, the Information Access Centres (IAC) under the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology recently conducted a three-day digital skills training program for Tharu youth in Nawalpur. Pradeep Dhodari, Coordinator at the IAC, stated that since 2021, the institute has been implementing digital inclusion initiatives through its Mobile IAC (bus) to narrow the digital divide and promote digital literacy among marginalized communities, women, teachers, students, government officials, and other groups across the country. 'So far, this centre has organized a range of information technology programs across all seven provinces, benefiting over 12,000 individuals from diverse backgrounds throughout Nepal,' Dhodari shared. Speaking to THT, Dhodari said, the three-day program, titled 'Capacity Building in Advanced Digital Technologies for Self-Employment,' was held at the Tharu National Museum Study Centre in Kawasoti-16, Danda, targeting 23 youths from the Tharu community. Participants were selected through a competitive process. 'At the request of local communities, we organize these programs specifically for marginalized and underrepresented groups to enhance digital literacy and bridge the digital divide.'

The training curriculum covered the current state of ICT in Nepal, relevant policies and regulations, cybersecurity and challenges, an introduction to AI and its tools, digital marketing, data collection and analysis, and content creation. 'The program was designed to equip participants with practical skills and knowledge that will enable them to pursue self-employment,' Dhodari added. Despite limited resources, the institute has consistently incorporated such programs into its regular activities over the past few years. 'These trainings aim to provide participants with participatory, practical, and effective knowledge, enabling them to make optimal use of modern technologies, thereby enhancing their capabilities and contributing meaningfully to self-employment,' Dhodari shared.