SHE WILL CONNECT AT SET HER FREE

What happens when young Ugandan girls, with great potential are presented with a powerful tool, a tool that exposes them to infinite information and opportunities like never before? What could possibly happen if these girls grabbed this tool and exploited its contents for their personal growth and development? Just imagine what could possibly happen…  

KiBO Foundation under Intel Corporation’s project code named “She Will Connect” led a four day basic Information Technology training at Set Her Free. Using its own philosophy, Set Her Free empowers young Ugandan women, formerly enslaved by sex trade to become self sustaining by providing a safe environment, education, and rehabilitation. This customized IT training focused on three main topics; Introduction to Computers, Introduction to the internet and search engines, and Introduction to Microsoft Word which suited their level of education and grasp of English.

A total of 44 girls were directly trained by KiBO Foundation’s team. On the fourth day of training, these girls invited 14 of their colleagues to whom they taught the basics they learnt with guidance from the KiBO team. It was a sign of progress, seeing that about 98% of these girls had no previous computer knowledge at the beginning of the training. These girls are now able to turn on a computer, surf the internet, and use MS Word. One of the girls who attended the training on the fourth day has expressed interest in joining the KiBO Program. This training has imparted more than just computer skills to these girls; it has boosted their self esteem, created an aura of excitement, and strengthened the girls’ commitment to the Set Her Free program.

Below are a few thoughts from Set Her free

"KiBO has helped our girls get a lot of exposure to computers given their background. They never thought they would have such trainings. It is a stepping stone on their path to success. We teach them trade skills but IT too is very important.  We are grateful for this and we hope for a lasting partnership"- Pamela Agaba, Programs Director and Counselor

“The girls have gained skills such as aspects of typing which they never had before. It has taken away part of their inferiority complex. They feel privileged because the previous class did not get any of this training. We would therefore like to continuously engage these young women in activities that build their esteem. Having IT as part of their training will help in retaining them over the six months they are here (at Set Her Free). This week has had an increased turn up because of this training. Let’s keep this partnership growing”- Hilda Acen, a Social Worker

Immaculate (beneficiary); I learnt a bit of computer here at Set Her Free and auntie Pam (Pamela Agaba) allows me to use her computer. I was most interested in learning how to use the internet. In general, it has been a refreshing course for me since I already had some basic computing knowledge. The teachers (facilitators) were always on time and they were not harsh. They were friendly to us.

My name is Hellen (beneficiary). I had some knowledge on computers which I learnt from school which was very limited. During this training, I learnt to write a letter (using MS Word) and to use the internet. I did not have any major challenges because I know how to read. I will use this computer knowledge to market my items (crafts, beads, bags) over the internet. It has been good to get more knowledge about computers especially after I dropped out of school.

Florence (beneficiary); I had no computer knowledge before this training. I expected to learn how to use Facebook, type, and to search for information on the internet. As you can see, I am more confident while using a computer now. Starting to type was initially challenging but I will get used to it. I want to use the internet to look for ways of making my future salon look different. I have learnt something new. It has made me happy. When you search for something on the internet and the screen brings you many results, you just start smiling.

Dorothy (beneficiary); I learnt some computer from auntie Pamela. This training showed me that you can never have a lot of knowledge on anything. I expected to learn MS Excel but it did not happen. May be I’ll learn it next time. It was hard to use the Typing Tutor because of the way fingers are supposed to be placed but I found a way out. This training has been good, adventurous and interesting. I will be helping aunt Pam in typing her work. The internet will be resourceful in learning more about hair dressing, something I like very much.

Faridah (beneficiary); I had no interest in gaining computer skills. But when I was told about this training, I thought it would be good to try it out. I kept forgetting what was taught but my neighbors were very helpful. I now want to learn more. In fact, I’ll ask my big brother to buy me a computer although I think it’s expensive. I want to type more, and use the internet more.

Prossy (beneficiary); I did not have any computer skills prior to this training. I am excited about this whole computer idea. I have learnt how to turn on a computer, type, and save my documents. I will practice these skills when I get the chance to sit on any computer. During this training, I did not face any challenges because it was fun.

It is therefore evident that this training had a powerful impact on these girls. Their outlook has changed and there is more optimism in using the internet as a learning and marketing tool.