OUR WORK
YAI works in countries that have been impacted by years of war and are striving to rebuild. We focus our efforts on improving digital literacy amongst young people as a tool to help them break out of extreme poverty. By providing opportunities for livelihoods, YAI helps to foster economic growth and thereby stabilize democracy by increasing access to digital literacy.
YAI accomplishes its mission by establishing computer labs for high schools, hosting community based computer training workshops and creating applications that foster digital learning.
This enables beneficiaries to access distant learning opportunities, qualify them for certain jobs, and creates new earning opportunities.
In developed countries, digital literacy is embedded in learning from an early age. Similarly, medium income countries in Asia such as China, South Korea and India have prioritized ICT education as being critical to growth and development. These investments have been instrumental in creating a highly skilled workforce, which attracts international investment opportunities.
Africa lags behind in terms of this kind of investment in education and risks the chance of not being able to reap the full benefits from the digital age. Although Africa has a large youth population with over 60% of its population being under the age of 25, young people have very limited access to computers or the internet. UNICEF estimates that only 34% of African households have access to the internet, only 8% of students in sub-Saharan Africa have access to a computer and 14% have access to the internet at home (usually by mobile phone).
Africa lags behind in terms of this kind of investment in education and risks the chance of not being able to reap the full benefits from the digital age. Although Africa has a large youth population with over 60% of its population being under the age of 25, young people have very limited access to computers or the internet. UNICEF estimates that only 34% of African households have access to the internet, only 8% of students in sub-Saharan Africa have access to a computer and 14% have access to the internet at home (usually by mobile phone).
With its large population of youth, Africa has the potential to lead innovation and build an economy with secure digital jobs, but is severely challenged by low computer literacy rates. Families living in extreme poverty do not have computers at home and only a few very elite and expensive high schools have computer labs. Young people interested in enrolling in private computer schools are required to pay hefty fees that are often more than the cost of their high school tuition.
Multiple studies recognize that being able to access and participate in the digital world is one of the surest ways to lift millions out of poverty. The Brookings Institute says, “the spread of digital technologies can empower the poor with access to information, job opportunities, and services that improve their standard of living.” Unfortunately, despite the indicators that point to the enormous benefits of ensuring that African youth are computer literate, the knowledge gap remains extremely wide.
YAI is working to change this narrative and empower thousands of young people to become computer literate, thereby increasing their chances of success in today’s digital world and improving Africa’s success rate.
COMPUTER LABS
Youth Action International’s state-of-the-art computer labs stand as beacons of opportunity in underserved communities. These labs are more than physical spaces; they are gateways to digital empowerment. Equipped with modern computers and high-speed internet, our labs serve as vibrant hubs where young people can acquire essential digital literacy skills, explore the world of information, and unleash their creative potential.
Our computer labs are not merely places to learn; they are platforms for innovation and growth. Here, youth from all walks of life gather to learn about computer basics, online research, software applications, and coding. These skills open doors to education, employment, and entrepreneurship, creating pathways to a brighter future. From interactive workshops to collaborative projects, our labs foster an environment where young minds can brainstorm, create, and develop solutions to real-world challenges using technology.
In regions where access to technology is limited, Youth Action International’s computer labs play a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide. We believe that access to technology is a fundamental right, and our labs strive to democratize that access. By providing a space for young individuals to acquire digital skills, we empower them to navigate the digital world with confidence and competence. Through these labs, we are not just teaching how to use computers; we are creating a generation that can harness the power of technology to bring about positive change in their lives and communities.
BOOTCAMPS
Youth Action International’s computer training bootcamps are immersive and transformative experiences designed to fast-track digital literacy. These intensive programs provide focused, hands-on training in a condensed timeframe, equipping participants with essential computer skills that open doors to various opportunities, even for young people who are not enrolled in participating high schools. From mastering software applications to understanding programming fundamentals, bootcamp participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the digital landscape. These dynamic learning environments foster collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving, empowering individuals to navigate the digital world confidently and contribute meaningfully to their personal and professional growth.
COMMUNITY TRAINING CENTERS
Youth Action International’s high school computer labs are not only hubs of learning for enrolled students but also serve as vital community resources beyond school hours. These labs remain open after classes to offer computer training to community members of all ages, amplifying the impact of education in underserved areas. By providing access to digital resources, software applications, and skilled instructors, these labs become catalysts for growth, enabling individuals to acquire valuable digital literacy skills that enhance their employability and broaden their horizons.
The decision to extend computer training to community members after school hours is a strategic step towards maximizing the benefits of technology education. These labs create an environment where curious minds of all ages can engage with technology in a guided setting. From parents looking to improve their digital skills to young adults seeking career advancement, these extended hours cater to the diverse needs of the community. This approach not only strengthens the bond between the high schools and their surrounding neighborhoods but also transforms the labs into vibrant community centers that contribute to local development. As a result, Youth Action International’s high school computer labs play a pivotal role in driving progress and empowerment well beyond the traditional school day.
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