With Singapore’s recent progression towards becoming a smart nation, heavy emphasis is no doubt placed on technology, smart living, IoT, etc.
Thus, to ensure that the grey population does not get left behind by wider trends but can rise to meet the expectations and demands of a Smart Nation, The North East Eldersurf Intergen Bootcamp was organised.
This camp was organised by the Infocomm Development Authority (IDA)of Singapore, the North East Community Development Council, POSB Bank and 18 schools.
It was officially launched earlier this week by Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean and MP for Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC.
Thus far, more than 450 senior citizens have signed up for courses under this programme, which began last November.
“Singapore’s smart nation push is meant to benefit all parts of society, including seniors who might sometimes find technology daunting,” said IDA Managing Director, Jacqueline Poh.
The boot camp, which ends in March, comprises of six modules – of which five of them three-hour workshops are led by student guides aged 10 to 15. The sixth is an hour-long workshop on automated banking services.
Seniors will pick up skills on how to operate the SMS banking services and self-service banking at the bank, such as drawing funds using a passbook instead of an ATM card.
Retired technical officer Alan Loh, 69, who has completed all six modules, says he no longer has to endure long queues at the bank just to draw money.
“It is faster and more convenient as I don’t have to queue. I also learnt how to use Google Maps to find my way when I am lost,” he said.
To conclude, this free boot camp is part of the Government’s suit of initiatives to build a digitally inclusive society, as the Republic moves to becoming a Smart Nation where resources are better managed by technology.
Image from Teo Chee Hean Facebook