Connect, Latvia!

Mastering 21st-century technologies plays a pivotal role in reducing social exclusion; the number of people in Europe aged 65+ was expected to double by 2060, and even though Latvia is among the world's top countries for broadband penetration and internet use, 73% of Latvians aged 55+ lacked computer literacy skills. Latvia is one of the fastest-ageing regions of Europe, and rising retirement ages have made skill-development activities that keep older people in the job market fundamentally necessary.

To minimise the digital divide in society and prevent the social exclusion of seniors aged over 50 by promoting computer and digital skills; the 2012 target, honouring the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations, was to educate at least 6,000 seniors aged 50+, with more than 80% expected to continue using the e-skills gained.

Lattelecom, the largest electronic services provider in Latvia, ran free computer education for seniors (50+) for the 5th year, using a training scheme with volunteer teachers working at local schools, digital centres, libraries and other institutions with computer classes; teachers first undergo a training course designed by Lattelecom before teaching seniors. Lattelecom has invested €100,000 to date.

From April to November 2012, more than 6,600 seniors were trained, exceeding the 6,000 target. A participant opinion poll found 81% of those who mastered basic computer skills report improved quality of life and feeling part of modern society, 99% rate teacher professionalism and responsiveness positively, 90% evaluate the classes as useful, and 85% would like to continue developing the skills gained.