Case study describing implementation and results of the Digital skills @ your local library project, implemented in Uganda by EIFL and partners from 2021-2023. The case study also reflects on lessons learnt. 

The project worked with 27 public and community libraries that had been equipped with computers and the internet. It built libraries’ ICT skills and training capacity, enabling them to provide digital skills and digital literacy training in their communities, and to connect learners to online educational opportunities. The project specifically targeted vulnerable women and youth.

In two-and-a-half years librarians and library volunteers reached over 22,000 vulnerable people through library-based training and through outreach programmes. Trainees learnt basic digital skills, digital literacy, including use of search engines and online security, mobile digital skills, and a variety of vocational and other skills through online courses. They used these new skills to generate income, find jobs, pass exams and build better futures.

The project implementation partners were EIFL, Peer 2 Peer University (USA-based NGO), National Library of Uganda and Maendeleo Foundation (Uganda-based NGO). The project was supported by the Wehubit Programme implemented by the Belgian development agency, Enabel.