CDU supports digital workforce for Groote Eylandt

Employers of the Anindilyakwa Land Council (ALC) on Groote Eylandt have been receiving personalised Digital Literacy training from Charles Darwin University (CDU) designed to upskill their digital skills in the workplace.

This training is part of the ALC’s commitment to creating a sustainable workforce as they continue to build a self-sufficient future for communities in the Groote Archipelago.

CDU’s Foundation Skills Team has been engaged by ALC to deliver a project to build confidence and develop the digital literacy skills of ALC employees towards independently using technology at work.

CDU Foundation Skills Lecturer Wendy Kennedy said the program had made a positive impact in workplaces on Groote Eylandt.

“This program is an opportunity for employees to gain skills and confidence in essential skills for their job roles,” Ms Kennedy said.

In order to raise awareness about the upcoming training, Ms Kennedy agreed to spread the word about her digital literacy training over the community radio in Angurugu.

“The community radio is crucial in promoting news in remote communities and to provide an insight into what is going on.”

Training has been delivered on a fortnightly basis in Angurugu and Umbakumba, with Ms Kennedy visiting a range of workplaces such as the Language Centres at Angurugu and Umbakumba, the Community Support office, the HR training centre, the Arts centre and the Women’s activity centre.

Some of the participants have been working one-on-one with the lecturer in the workplace, whilst others met in the ALC training hub in Angurugu and took part in small group training.

The program was developed in consultation with workplace supervisors to identify the digital skills and knowledge required in the various job roles.

Depending on the existing skills of the participant the program included consolidating basic computing skills, using Microsoft Word and workplace-specific software applications, as well as using Outlook, writing emails, and using the internet safely.

The training has been funded by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE), through the Foundation Skills for Your Future Program, which supports Australians who need help to improve their English language, reading, writing, numeracy or digital skills.