Age no barrier as teens connect with seniors to break down digital divide
St Pius X College Chatswood students are leading an intergenerational learning program designed to give local seniors the confidence to explore the digital world.
The 10 high school students are holding sessions with local residents, aged 55 or above, under the Young Mentors program which aims to improve older Australians’ digital skills by connecting them with student mentors.
The eSafety Commissioner program brings teenagers together with older Australians to share digital skills and knowledge and help them gain the confidence they need to navigate the online world.
“Technology has a wonderful ability to connect, enable and empower individuals, and the importance of this connection was made even more evident during the COVID-19 pandemic,” eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said.
“For those of us who use digital technology as an essential part of our daily lives, we may not realise how novel it can be to older people who have lived much of their lives without it.
“It’s difficult for anyone to stay on top of the continually evolving digital landscape as new technologies emerge. Ensuring we don’t leave older Australians behind as society continues to move online is essential.
“Young Mentors provides an opportunity for a genuine connection between generations as we work together to improve digital literacy in Australia, ensuring older Australians can stay connected with family, friends and their communities and empowering younger Australians through a leadership role as digital mentors.
"Young people also benefit from taking part in the program by developing teaching and leadership skills. And people of all ages taking part in the pilot reported increased social connection and understanding across generations."
Learn more and register via the eSafety Commissioner's website.
Photo: St Pius High School Year 11 student Luke Sarkissian paired with East Roseville resident Ann Glissan to offer some technological tips as part of the Young Mentors Be Connected program at Chatswood Library. Source Willoughby City Council.