Digitalization has opened doors of opportunities for millions of people in our country. Like every coin has two sides, this digital growth, too, comes with its set of advantages and disadvantages. Countless individuals of all age groups report cybercrime they face on digital platforms, and this majorly consists of women. The internet eventually becomes a difficult platform for women to exist, and the reasons can be traced back to illiteracy and lack of digital awareness. This increase in the rate of cybercrime has unfortunately disrupted the coexistence and basic ecosystem of India.
The more India digitizes, the bar of cybercrimes increases. One can lose their sense of identity and commit certain acts, often unknowingly, that would get them into trouble. So, it is vital for everyone, especially the young minds of the nation, to know and understand the type of content they consume. An understanding between differentiating good and bad is required.
With this new and rapid growth in technology, it’s essential that all users make the most of it in a positive way.
Clubbing digitalization with education is one of the biggest and most important step and this gap has been successfully bridged with the new and advanced learning tool - ICT, Information Communication Technology. ICT is the byproduct of academics and entertainment. To make full use of this gift of technology, we at Giving for Good Foundation along with our implementing partner, IDEA Foundation introduced “E-sakshar” - an initiative to educate, and create awareness among women, children, and the youth from rural communities on cyber safety and the importance of technology.
The main objective of this project was to create opportunities for individuals from slum communities, enhance their digital skills and basic computer knowledge. E-sakshar was used as an essential outreach tool to educate women and the youth on cyber-safety and the dos and don'ts of digital media. Until now, we have set up 2 educational centers in Pune City and 300+ young children and women have actively participated in this initiative. To complete this project, GfG set up a brand-new digital center, functioning as a SMART classroom for the children. Gradually, we aim to educate as many people young individuals as we can, across communities in Pune city.