New programme to better acquaint youths with technology |04 February 2015

Allowing the youths to be better acquainted with technological services such as the internet is the aim of a newly launched programme called Youth Tech.
The programme was officially launched on Saturday at the Seychelles National Youth Council (SNYC) building at English River.

Youth Tech aims to educate, as well as familiarise the youths with modern technology in a happy and safe environment.
Warren Constance from the department of information communication technology (DICT) made a power point presentation on the evolution of technology in Seychelles for the past 20 years.

Betty-May Leon and Linzy Moncherry also made power point presentations on the responsibilities towards technology. The two youth workers had had a chance in the past to attend a workshop on the use of technology.

According to them, technology is a collection of tools, machinery, modification, arrangements and procedures that humans use.

“The society and its surroundings have been vastly affected by technology. However, in certain societies, technology has helped to develop advanced economies. Youths in Seychelles frequently use the internet to visit several websites such as Facebook which is the most commonly used social network by youths. With Facebook, youths get a chance to chat with old friends, family from overseas and to make new friends. It is with these sites that people get the chance to connect to the world,” Ms Moncherry stated.

Responsibilities that were pointed out in the presentation are to keep passwords safe where no one but you can gain access to it. This also includes other personal information and photos.

Another example of a modern technological device is a mobile phone. The youth workers pointed out that certain people use their phones negatively such as making and sending anonymous calls and texts that lead to cyber bullying. The youth workers advised the youths not to indulge in such bad habits.

“Here in Seychelles the youths are very familiar with technology. They enjoy these on devices such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets and computers. But youths do not consider the advantages and disadvantages of technology,” Ms Leon stated.

Certain advantages of technology are fast access to information; it encourages innovations and creativity, improves communication and so much more. Certain disadvantages include security, privacy, loss of jobs and much more. Research shows that youths from 13 to 35 years old have facebook accounts.

At the end of the ceremony, youths present were expected to make better use of technology so that it will help them in their education and their future.

Also during the ceremony a youth package launched by local telecommunication firm Airtel was explained by the deputy chief executive of SNYC Alvin Laurence. He pointed out that what we put on the internet affects our whole lives whether positively or negatively. The package can be accessed if a person has the necessary criteria. The person does not have to possess an Airtel number as when they will use it they will be given one automatically. A person will not have to also possess a smart phone to have access to the package as it will be for all types of phones. This will also include a 70% discount on bill payments.

“Youths are expected to use this package for the reason they are living now. And that is to prepare for their future,” Mr Laurence said.

While officially launching the Youth Tech programme, the chief executive of the SNYC Vicky Van Der Westhuizen said it is important for the youths of Seychelles to keep abreast of all technological developments happening around the world today.

She advised the youths to use the internet in a friendly and positive way.
“This programme will develop fully in the coming years with different opportunities and support for those who are in need of basic skills,” said Mrs Van Der Westhuizen.

The SNYC has started computing classes and has reopened their games room. The youths at the event had a chance to tour the establishment and view the new additions that they will get the chance to enjoy.