The Minister of Labour and Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr, on Wednesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive digital empowerment while commending senior citizens participating in the GetConnected Digital Literacy Programme, a collaborative initiative between the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) and the HEART/NSTA Trust.

The Minister made the remarks during a pop-up visit to the training session at the National Council for Senior Citizens on West Kings House Road, where Cohort 3 of the programme was underway. A total of 33 senior citizens are enrolled in the latest phase of the initiative, which is designed to equip older Jamaicans with essential digital skills for today’s technology-driven society.

“Every time I see this programme in action, it sends a powerful message—our senior citizens are not on the sidelines of development; they are active participants in Jamaica’s future,” Minister Charles Jr said.

The GetConnected Digital Literacy Programme supports active, healthy, and productive ageing, enabling participants to use computers and mobile devices, stay connected with family and friends, access online services, protect themselves in digital spaces, and build confidence navigating the internet. The Minister emphasised that these skills reduce social isolation, promote independence, and can even open doors to new income-generating opportunities.

The programme is delivered using internationally recognised content and provides participants with the opportunity to earn City & Guilds certification, reinforcing the message that age is not a barrier to excellence.

As Jamaica prepares to observe Safer Internet Day in February, Minister Charles Jr also underscored the importance of pairing digital access with online safety awareness, particularly for vulnerable groups.

“Digital empowerment must go hand in hand with digital protection. Confidence, safety, and responsible online engagement are just as important as access,” he noted.

The Minister encouraged senior citizens across the island who are not yet enrolled to take advantage of the programme by contacting the National Council for Senior Citizens and participating when opportunities arise in their communities.

“As your Minister of Labour and Social Security, I remain fully committed to strengthening programmes that uplift our senior citizens, expand access to skills training, and promote dignity, inclusion, and opportunity at every stage of life,” Minister Charles Jr affirmed.

The Ministry, NCSC, and HEART/NSTA Trust continue to work collaboratively to ensure that no Jamaican is left behind as the country advances its digital transformation agenda.