07-08-2024 | di COOPI

CAR. Information technology in support of youth

In a context marked by numerous military and political conflicts, access to education and digital resources for the youth of the Central African Republic has become extremely difficult. Many young people in Bangui, especially in the 4th and 5th arrondissements, have never had access to IT or are unfamiliar with its tools. The Maison de Jeunesse, which were once centers for youth exchange and growth, have been severely damaged by ongoing clashes, depriving them of the necessary resources to offer adequate services. Now, thanks to the initiative "Youth, Hope of the Central African Republic: Masséka Bé-Kou Ti Bé-Afrika," funded by the European Union's Bêkou Fund and implemented by COOPI - Cooperazione Internazionale and the local NGO URU, things are changing.

The Maison de Jeunesse in Bangui were lively places where activities such as dance, sports, games, and IT courses took place. However, the infrastructure and equipment were vandalized during the clashes, transforming these spaces into desolate and abandoned places. The initiative "Youth, Hope of the Central African Republic: Masséka Bé-Kou Ti Bé-Afrika" has breathed new life into these places, making them centers of development for young people once again. M. DEGAPANJDI Vianney, director of the Maison de Jeunesse in the 5th arrondissement of Bangui, states:

Thanks to COOPI's project, our Maison de Jeunesse are regaining their function as centers of growth and development. We are grateful for this support and are committed to ensuring the sustainability of these results." 

The beneficiaries of the IT courses testify to the positive impact of the initiative. Symphorien, a young person from the 5th arrondissement, says:

Before this course, I knew nothing about IT. Now I have acquired skills that inspire me to continue learning and using the computer productively. It is an excellent initiative that gives young people, who have been victims of the events that affected the country, an opportunity to emerge." 

Marina, from the 4th arrondissement, shares her gratitude:

Not having the financial means to access such courses, this opportunity offered by COOPI has been fundamental for me. After interrupting my studies, this course has given me new hope." 

Francette Murielle also expresses her satisfaction:

Digital literacy is essential today. Before, I had a computer but didn't know how to use it; I considered it just a tool for distraction. Now, thanks to this course, I have understood the importance of digital literacy and learned to use my computer productively." 

COOPI has been consistently present in the Central African Republic since 1974, engaging in emergency and development projects primarily in the sectors of protection, education in emergencies, and food security. Since July 2021, the project "Youth, Hope of the Central African Republic: Masséka Bé-Kou Ti Bé-Afrika" supports programs for youth support and their participation in strengthening dialogue and social cohesion.