Opening digital doors: the first ICB Train-the-Trainer course with ITU
This spring, together with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), we held the first-ever Train-the-Trainer course on Introduction to Computer Basics for (ICB) under the Digital Transformation Centres (DTC) initiative.
Delivered virtually over seven days and five sessions, the course brought together participants from 11 countries: Papua Nuova Guinea, Nigeria, Trinidad & Tobago, Uganda, Pakistan, Morocco, Rwanda, Ghana, Indonesia, Côte d’Ivoire, and Zambia. It brought together trainers and Centre managers to strengthen their ability to teach basic computer skills in an inclusive and practical way. DTC focal points attended too, with the goal of understanding how to implement the same course in their respective countries.
The program was designed to help participants pass on digital literacy skills to learners who have never used a computer before. Over the course of the week, participants explored key topics including computer fundamentals, virtual desktop environments, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, internet navigation, email, online meetings, social media basics, online safety, and an introduction to Artificial Intelligence. The final session also addressed facilitation skills and use of our proprietary online learning platform.
The training balanced theory and practice, giving participants hands-on experience and concrete tools they could apply in their own centres. It also reflected the broader goal of the DTC Initiative: to strengthen local capacity and support trainers in delivering digital skills programs that respond to community needs. Participants explored how to teach in low-resource environments, adapt curricula locally, assess learning practically, and promote digital inclusion as a long-term commitment.
The course was made possible through close collaboration with ITU, as well as the valuable support of Rene Munyembari, Sada Kane, and Mohamed Dumbuya, our country managers in Africa, who helped organize and coordinate the training. Their contribution helped make this first edition a smooth and meaningful success.
The first ICB Train-the-Trainer course marks an important milestone in inclusive digital learning. By equipping trainers to adapt and deliver the ICB curriculum in their own contexts, the program lays the foundation for broader impact and a more accessible digital future for all.
The first ICB Train-the-Trainer course marks an important milestone in inclusive digital learning. By equipping trainers to adapt and deliver the ICB curriculum in their own contexts, the program lays the foundation for broader impact and a more accessible digital future for all.
International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
ITU is the United Nations specialized agency for digital technologies (ICTs). The Organization is made up of a membership of 194 Member States and more than 1000 companies, universities and international and regional organizations. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and with regional offices on every continent, ITU is the oldest agency in the UN family – has been connecting people for over 160 years.
“This first ICB train-the-trainer course is a practical step toward making digital skills accessible to people and communities that have been left behind. By equipping trainers with the right tools and methodologies, we are helping build a more inclusive digital future.”
Sada Kane, Country Manager for Senegal and ICB Coordinator