National Observance:

World Computer Literacy Day – December 2nd

by Mateo, 11th grade

As innovative technology continues to develop and expand its reach throughout the world, it is gradually becoming more and more necessary for people to possess sufficient digital literacy skills. However, many American adults struggle to adjust to a world more dependent than ever on tech.

A recent study by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development reveals that about one-third of the American workforce does not have the digital skills needed to efficiently navigate the modern world, which will be problematic if the projection that 90% of occupations in the U.S. will require adequate digital skills by 2030 holds true. World Computer Literacy Day works to provide people throughout the globe with the knowledge they need to be successful in this new age by spreading awareness of the importance of digital literacy and mitigating the effects of the digital divide.

World Computer Literacy Day was introduced in 2001 by the National Institute of Information Technology (NIIT), a computer company based in India, as a celebration of its 20th anniversary. The organization recognized a growing worldwide digital divide between those who were digitally literate and those who were not, and they wanted to dedicate some of their time and resources towards lessening its impact.

During World Computer Literacy Day, the NIIT encourages people to help promote the spread of digital knowledge through several means, such as providing everyone with readily available computer access, offering computer education and tech tips to others and stressing the importance of having digital skills in today’s technology-dominated society.

There are many ways that you can contribute to this year’s World Computer Literacy Day. For one, you can donate any old devices you may have. Many people improperly dispose of old electronics because they are unaware that it can be recycled and repurposed. There are many organizations out there that will transform your unwanted electronics into brand-new devices that can help other people obtain critical technological skills.

In addition, if you or someone you know has advanced technological skills, you can host a community course to educate others on computer literacy topics. Many public facilities such as libraries or community centers are often looking for volunteers to come in and share their wealth of knowledge on technology with the community in hopes of making more people digitally literate. However, despite these effective methods, the fastest and easiest way to join the cause is by spreading awareness about World Computer Literacy Day to those around you so they can get in on the action as well.

In an era so reliant on technology, knowing how to efficiently utilize digital devices for your work and how to stay safe while utilizing them is pivotal for prosperity in today’s society. By supporting World Computer Literacy Day, you can help integrate all generations of people into our increasingly digital world, leading to a more knowledgeable and informed society.