The Singapore International Foundation (SIF) launched a virtual volunteering programme called DigiLABS to ready youth in Asia for a digital economy and help drive social innovation and change in their community through digital solutions.

“Southeast Asia is undergoing rapid and unprecedented digital transformation, driven by the rising number of digital start-ups, changing lifestyles and aspirations, and a young population that embraces technology. We must continue to equip our people with the necessary skills and digital access to thrive in the digital world,” said Tan Kiat How, Ministry of Communications and Information, Singapore, at the launch.

“Through DigiLABS, the SIF will support the building of digital capabilities of our youths in the region through its strong network of volunteers and industry partners. Together, we will build societies that are digitally inclusive and better prepared for a shared digital future.”

The launch event included a fireside chat on “Digital Skills for a Better World,” featuring industry experts and social entrepreneurs in the tech-for-good field.

During the dialogue, the panellists shared the potential of digital skills as a force for good. For instance, digital technology allows for radically different and scalable approaches to tackle global social challenges in various areas, including the environment, healthcare, and education.

The speakers also discussed the importance of diversity and inclusion in digital skilling that enables everyone to be part of the tech-for-good movement.

DigiLABS is a skill-based e-volunteering initiative that will see SIF volunteers use their professional experience and expertise to train youths in the region in digital skills, such as data science and digital marketing.

The programme will run annually for the next four years, and each year, 600 participants get to choose from four learning paths – Data Science, Digital Marketing, Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity – and undergo an eight-week foundational and a six-week accelerator course to equip them with desired digital skills.

“DigiLABS was designed to raise digital literacy among youths and cultivate a greater sense of responsibility for and ownership of the future. The programme also marks the SIF’s second foray into e-volunteering as we navigate the new normal in international cooperation for development,” said SIF Executive Director Jean Tan. — VNS