SYDNEY, July 3 (Xinhua) -- A digital literacy program will be rolled out in 26 indigenous communities across the Australian State of Queensland, it was announced Monday.
The community-based training scheme will be conducted by local councils, the State Library of Queensland and telecommunication company Telstra, with the aim of connecting regional and remote areas of the state that often lack access to computers.
"This is a huge step towards closing the gap and improving the digital inclusion of Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," state minister for innovation, Leeanne Enoch said in a statement.
"It is programs like this that boost our state's entrepreneurial culture, by giving all Queenslanders the skills needed for the jobs of the future."
Participants in the program will learn everything from ways to connect with family, how to send an email, social media platforms and how to promote a business idea.
With more digital inclusion, State Library of Queensland chief executive officer Vicki McDonald, believes it will help find "untapped potential" and highlight the "unique and vibrant communities."
Telstra's chief sustainability officer Tim O'Leary echoed these sentiments and said that in the digital age, he believes digital literacy is an essential skill.
"We want to see all Australians connect, participate and interact in the digital world, irrespective of where they live. This is what this initiative is all about," O'Leary said.
"As more and more services and daily interactions move online, being able to use digital technologies brings vital health, social and financial benefits, especially for Indigenous people in remote locations."
The program will commence in September 2017.
