In Brgy. Calumbuyan, New Lucena on October 11, 2024, a group of 17 enthusiastic learners gathered for a transformative event: the Computer Literacy Training. The participants, a mix of the Calumbuyan Women Association (CWA) and Barangay Officials, were eager to embrace the digital age, and what unfolded was more than just a lesson in technology—it was a leap into empowerment and sustainability.
The Training: From Basics to Breakthroughs
The training kicked off with the essentials, easing participants into the world of computers. Imagine the excitement as they learned to identify and navigate basic hardware components like the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. It might sound simple, but for many, this was their first hands-on experience with technology, making every click feel like a victory.
As their curiosity blossomed, the training moved on to software. The resource person Anne Loren Geroche, SEA Inc AMA volunteer introduced them to the power of word processors, spreadsheets, and presentation tools, making sure they knew how to bold, italicize, and even save their work like pros. The participants learned to harness the power of the toolbar, insert tables, adjust fonts, and save documents efficiently.
But what made this training extra special was the emphasis on the Internet—an essential tool in today’s world. Participants dove into online research, learning how to sift through information wisely and use various platforms to communicate and collaborate. In a world overflowing with data, knowing how to navigate it effectively is a superpower, and the women of Calumbuyan now wield it with confidence.
Building Digital Safety and Self-Reliance
Beyond the technical know-how, the training also covered digital safety, an often overlooked but critical skill. With lessons on protecting personal information, participants were equipped not just with the skills to surf the web, but also to do so securely and responsibly.
This training wasn’t just about using computers—it was about ensuring that the women and barangay officials could thrive in an increasingly digital world. By empowering them with knowledge and safety, they can now confidently explore online spaces without fear.
The Ripple Effect: From Skill to Self-Esteem
For the CWA and barangay officials, this training wasn’t just about learning to type or format a document. It was about boosting their productivity, fostering self-esteem, and enabling them to participate more fully in their communities. Now, they can confidently assist their children with computer-based school projects or contribute more efficiently to barangay activities.
Moreover, this training is part of a larger movement towards sustainability. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, these participants are no longer bystanders in the fast-paced world of technology; they are active players, ready to adapt and grow as the digital landscape evolves.
Voices from the Ground: Participants Share Their Experiences
Rowena, a proud member of the CWA, shared her joy: “Nami kay bisan tigulang na kami, gina-tagaan kami gihapon importansya sang SEA nga magtuon computer. Di man lang gali sa mga pamatan-on pwede magtuon computer.” (I’m glad that even though we are older, SEA still values us and teaches us computers. It’s not just for the young anymore.)
Celeste, a mother and barangay official, highlighted the importance of learning for the future: “Nami ged nga gin tagaan kami opportunity nga maka tuon computer kay para man kun makabulig kami sa amon kabataan kun may computerized sila nga project.” (It’s great that we were given the opportunity to learn computers so we can help our children when they have computerized projects.)
Liza expressed her gratitude: “Salamat ged sa SEA kay gina tutukan kita nanda bisan sa aton mga trainings. Kag nami ged kay nakatuon kami kun paano mag-computer.” (Thank you so much to SEA for guiding us during these trainings. It’s great that we learned how to use a computer.)
Lejanie encapsulated the collective sentiment: “Nami ged nga naka attend kami sa computer literacy training, kundi di kami mapa bilin nga ignorante kapin pa nga ga amat amat na subong digital ang tanan. Salamat ged sa SEA.” (It’s so good that we attended the computer literacy training, so we won’t be left behind as everything becomes digital. Thank you, SEA!)
Moving Forward
The Computer Literacy Training in Brgy. Calumbuyan isn’t just a one-off event—it’s a stepping stone for the community’s journey towards digital sustainability. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the skills of the women and officials who participated. Their newfound confidence and competence will undoubtedly ripple out into the community, creating a more digitally literate and empowered Barangay Calumbuyan.
In a world where technology is at the forefront of progress, this training is not just an educational initiative—it’s a vital investment in the future of the community. The women of Calumbuyan are ready to take on the digital world, one click at a time.
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