Basic and Digital Literacy Class for Older Persons

Empowering a Generation: Ageing Nepal’s Literacy and Digital Skills Initiative
Ageing Nepal, a leading organisation dedicated to empowering older adults in Nepal, tackles the growing challenge of digital exclusion through its innovative literacy and digital skills initiative.

From Pilot to National Vision
The initiative began in 2016 with a successful six-month pilot program offering basic literacy classes for older adults, supported by the UN NGO Committee on Ageing. The program’s positive impact led to a year-long extension and the development of the first Nepali-language literacy textbook specifically designed for seniors, authored by Dr Helen Abadzi. Ageing Nepal also created teacher training guidelines to ensure program quality.

Spreading the Knowledge
Building on the pilot’s success, Ageing Nepal replicated the program in eight locations within the Kathmandu Valley. Local governments played a vital role in sustaining these classes until the COVID-19 pandemic. Their long-term vision is to expand the initiative nationwide, promoting digital inclusion for all older adults.

Building Essential Skills
Currently, Ageing Nepal operates a pilot class in Tinthana, Kathmandu, collaborating with the local government. The program equips older adults with two key skills:

• Literacy and Numeracy: Participants develop basic reading, writing, and numeracy skills in both Nepali and English.
• Digital Literacy: The program teaches participants how to use mobile phones, electronic appliances, and other essential digital tools for everyday life.

A Brighter Future
Ageing Nepal’s initiative addresses the critical need to bridge the digital divide for older adults. By equipping them with essential literacy and digital skills, they empower seniors to participate more actively in society and navigate the digital world with confidence.