Alex’s elderly were equipped with the digital skills that will help them play a significant role in their grandchildren’s education.
This was through the goGOGOgo’s iGOGO digital skills training programme, in collaboration with Vuma.
This training initiative has provided them with essential digital skills and the tools to assist their grandchildren with homework and research, fostering a new generation of learners.
ALSO READ: Gogos embrace digital skills training
Twenty-eight women affectionately known as gogos and five men graduated from the programme, marking a new chapter in their lives as empowered digital users.
The graduation ceremony, held at Itlhokomeleng Old Age Home, was a testament to the transformative power of technology and showcased the important role these gogos will play in helping their grandchildren navigate the online world for educational purposes.
One of the graduates Rebecca Sefatsia said, “I never thought I would learn how to use a tablet at my age. This training has opened a new world for me and now I can help my grandchildren with their schoolwork and even shop for groceries online. I feel empowered.”
ALSO READ: Alex gogos and mkhulus warmed up this winter
GOGOs with Vuma trainer and facilitator Thando Mokoena said the graduates were positioned to become invaluable resources for their families, enhancing their grandchildren’s experiences.
“Seeing these women grow and learn has been a remarkable journey. Even though it was not easy to work with the elderly, I have developed in terms of patience, love and care.
“The elderly’s determination to embrace new skills is inspiring and today’s graduation is a testament to their hard work and commitment. I am incredibly proud of each one of them,” she said.
The founder and executive director of goGOGOgo Jane Simmonds said, “Most children are raised by gogos in SA, so we want to honour them and look at the roles they play in keeping families and communities together. And I think with Women’s Day [August 9], it is important for us to celebrate gogos.
“Older people are scared of the internet, they think it is a place where your identity and your money get stolen. We then decided to work with gogos to teach them that the internet has value, useful and important.”
She concluded they gave the elderly free tablets so their grandchildren could access the internet and appealed to anyone who may assist the graduates with monthly data.
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
