Basic Computer Training for southern Tigray community

Proposed By: -
Mehari Kiros Hiluf (MSc. in Computer science)
 Email: meharikiros1212@gmail.com
 phone number: +251932347668

Submission Date: ________________________

 Abstract
Today’s globalization, the advent of information management and the development of the use of
internet as well as global communication networks is making information technology a major
change tool in our world today. Since the emergence of Computer Literacy Skills, has proven to
be an integral component in the development of our educational system in Ethiopia. In this
context computer literacy refers to the knowledge and ability to utilize computers and related
technology efficiently, with a range of skills covering levels from elementary use to
programming and advanced problem solving. In a computer language, understanding how
computers work and operate basically on our day today activities. The common use of
computers, there still exist a gap between what is expected and what is required when it comes to
proficiency in computer skills among governmental workers in Ethiopia specifically southern
Tigray zone. This situation calls for the development of a program geared towards equipping the
governmental workers especially youth with elementary use of computers to enable them acquire
basic computer knowledge. This program aims to provide students with an opportunity to:
Acquire basic computer skills with an understanding of fundamental concepts of the use of
computers to enhance their problem-solving skills and enable them encourage positive attitudes
towards the ever-changing trends in business and society. The primary targeted population for
this program will be governmental workers of the zone.

Overview

The main objective of this grant is to provide basic computer skills to ages 20 to 40, who are new
to the basics of computing or have little experience with computer technology. This project will
help participants develop a fundamental understanding of computers usage, such as emailing and
Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).  At the end of the project, participants
should be able to perform basic computing tasks with confidence and integrate computer skills
into their personal and professional lives. This project will contribute to economic development
in southern Tigray specifically Maichew, mokeni, alemata and korem by providing participants
with essential skills needed in the modern workforce. There will be five (4) training parts, with
each part lasting for roughly twenty days (20) days. Each part will have eight (8) sessions of one
hour and thirty minutes (1h30) each, over a period of 4 weeks. Total contact hours will be 12 per
part. For five parts, that will be 60 contact hours for each of the 4 spaces. The language of
instruction will be Portuguese. The Raya University will provide computers equipped with
Microsoft office and internet for these trainings.
Interested grantees should submit a detailed proposal with course description and budget that
includes all expenses related to the organization and management of the trainings including
trainee’s selection strategy. Interested grantees should have experience on the field.
1.0. Introduction
Today’s globalization, the advent of information management and the development of the use of
internet as well as global communication networks is making information technology a major
change tool in our world today. Over the years, computers have become a household essential,
among governmental workers specially youth. Since the emergence of Computer Literacy Skills,
it has proven to be an integral component in the development of our educational system in
Ethiopia specifically southern Tigray zone. Though a large number of governmental workers or
youths today are abreast with technology, much of this awareness may be limited to the use of
social media via the internet and mobile phones and not computer applications such as Microsoft
word, Access, Excel and Power Point. These basic skills are examined and called to bear in
every transitional point of our educational advancement and our day to day activities. Hence,
basic knowledge and skills in computer literacy is fundamental to the governmental workers
knowledge development.

In this context computer literacy refers to the knowledge and ability to utilize computers and
related technology efficiently, with a range of skills covering levels from elementary use to
programming and advanced problem solving. In a computer language, understanding how
computers work and operate basically on our day to day activities. Computer literacy is
therefore considered a very important skill to possess as employers expect their workers to have
basic computer skills. In effect, companies are becoming ever more dependent on computers as
they move into the technological age of business for effective and efficient service delivery.

1.1. Problem statement

Despite the common use of computers, there still exist a gap between what is expected and what
is required when it comes to proficiency in computer skills among governmental workers in
Ethiopia. This can be attributed to lack of capacity building in the field of computer literacy.
Hence, necessitating a solid background in the basics of Computer Literacy.

This situation calls for the development of a program geared towards equipping the
governmental workers especially youth with elementary use of computers to enable them acquire
basic computer knowledge. It is against this background that a program in Basic Computer
Literacy is being proposed to be run by the Institute on the periphery of its core programs. This
program is being proposed to equip those governmental workers with practical basic computer
knowledge, as well as improve their computer competences to enable them adapt to the fast-
changing information society.

The program is intended to build in governmental workers a general awareness of the ranges of
tasks that can be performed with computers.

1.2. Objective of the study

1.2.1. General Objective

This program aims to provide students with an opportunity to:

Acquire basic computer skills with an understanding of fundamental concepts of the use of
computers to enhance their problem-solving skills and enable them encourage positive attitudes
towards the ever-changing trends in business and society.

1.2.2. Specific Objectives

After completion of the course, students/participants should be able to:

 To know common computing terminologies;

 To understand the basic principles of operating computer systems;
 To acquire basic knowledge in computer applications (Microsoft word, power point,
publisher, excel, access and etc.);
 To make use of common application software packages to carry out simple tasks;
 To be aware of social issues related to computer applications;
 appreciate the advancement brought about by the general use of computers in society.

1.3. Expected Outcome

The Institute/company will derive benefits such as:

1. additional income

2. high publicity

1.4. Targeted Population

The primary targeted population for this program will be governmental workers of the zone. This
is because most often than not JHS and SHS graduates complete school with little or no
 knowledge of Basic Computer Literacy Skills due to lack of the school’s resources in the field,
inadequate technical know-how and the insufficient allocation of time for the development of
Computer Literacy Skills among these targeted students. This creates the problem where
graduates have to learn basic but yet essential computer skills; such as (Microsoft word, Power
point, Excel) while working or furthering their education. For this reason, it is relevant to
introduce a comprehensive program to bridge the gap between trainees and their Computer
Literacy Skills. There by equipping them with the needed skills to survive and adapt to the
increasingly competitive corporate world and dynamic educational or working environment
system.

Nevertheless, this program will be open for the considerations of individuals who wish to acquire
or improve on their Computer Literacy Skills. We seek to develop a flexible program for workers
so as to incorporate individuals from all walks of life.

1.5. Advertisement
The program seeks to use an effective and cost-efficient mode of advertisement, which will be
through the distribution of fliers at the various BECE and WASSCE examination centers.

This mode of advertisement is being proposed with the sheer aim of reducing the cost of
advertising the program while maximizing patronage.

Course Duration: This program will be offered in 3-hour sessions, for a continuation of 6
weeks. With a daily 30-minute break taken for snacks.

Teaching Method: The training will be provided in an informal setting in a small

group. Students will be encouraged to listen to a presentation/ view a demonstration and to

participate in hands-on learning at the computers. Instructional materials will be designed to

support this method of teaching.

Certificate: Students will be tested and awarded with certificates upon their successful
completion of the Basic Literacy Skills program.

1.6. Implementation Plan

Activity Time Resources Outcome
 limit
Setting up of organizing committee 2 days Snacks/Lunch break Committee setup
Appointment of course facilitators and 1 day Course facilitators and coordinators
coordinators appointed
Preparation and Presentation of 5 days Snacks/Lunch break Course outline for the program
proposed course outline
Designing and distribution of fliers 5 days Stationary Fliers distributed
T & T allowance
Registering participants 5 days Registration forms Students registered
Course Orientation 1 day Outline of Course Students oriented
Commencement of program 6 ICT Laboratory, Computers, Proficiency in Computer Literacy
weeks Internet connection, Snacks
Award certificates 1 day Certificates Certified
It is therefore expected that a more definite curricular will be drawn upon the acceptance of this concept.
CONCLUSION
Upon completion of this program, the student/trainee should feel more comfortable with
computers and have some confidence in exploring software on their own.