Sada Kane, Giovanna Bottani and Mohamed Dumbuya
From June 10–12, 2025, the city of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, hosted the Annual Global Digital Transformation Centers (DTC) Workshop, organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and Cisco. Launched in 2019, the DTC Initiative supports a global network of centers providing free or affordable digital skills training to underserved communities. These centers act as inclusive engines for digital transformation, equipping individuals, especially those most disadvantaged, with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s digital world.
For the third consecutive year, Giovanna Bottani, our Chief Operating Officer, was invited to present key updates on our ongoing commitment to this initiative. Sada Kane and Mohamed Dumbuya, our Country Managers for Senegal and Sierra Leone, respectively, also attended the workshop. Giovanna’s presentation focused on three core strategic pillars: Training of Trainers (ToT), empowerment of teachers, and a scalable, multi-level model applied in both Senegal and Sierra Leone.
In Senegal, over 200 visually impaired learners were trained between August 2024 and January 2025 through the ICB4VI course, thanks to a strong local network of instructors formed via the ToT methodology. In parallel, by training a select group of instructors through the national ToT program in Sierra Leone, we enabled a multiplier effect where these instructors successfully trained more than 600 new learners in computer basics (ICB), confirming the model’s adaptability to different contexts and communities. In both countries, we invested in the empowerment of trainers to enhance the sustainability and quality of digital education. All local teachers were given access to HP LIFE and Cisco Academy platforms, strengthening their digital, pedagogical, and entrepreneurial skills.
Giovanna also introduced two new training paths now available within the DTC network: the Advanced ICB4VI Course, designed to teach productivity tools and foster autonomy, and the Smartphone for Visually Impaired Learners Course, aimed at increasing everyday digital independence.
Moreover, she reaffirmed the importance of a multi-level approach to addressing the digital divide. Alongside ICB4VI, we offer a broad portfolio of programs, including ICB, Tablet 4Kids, and Coding for Beginners, enabling learners of all ages to access digital opportunities at different entry points. “The more we join forces, the more people we can reach,” Giovanna said. “Digital inclusion is about dignity, access, and opportunity. When we align our efforts, we multiply our collective impact.”
The Global DTC Workshop 2025 was a powerful reminder that collaboration is key to building an inclusive digital future. We remain committed to this mission, one learner, one teacher, one center at a time.
