CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)--The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)-10, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental (PGMO), launched its LAMDAG training program for 28 beneficiaries in the province.
Abbreviated as LAMDAG, which stands for Leading Advocacy to Marginalized Sectors through DICT-10's Program to Acquire Skills and Gain Employment, this project is a regional initiative of the department.
Its primary goal is to empower participants from marginalized sectors with the necessary information, communication tools, and skills training to excel in the digital world. This initiative aims to reduce the digital divide, characterized by unequal access to digital tools, including internet services, online payments, and education.
LAMDAG is a series of projects that commences with a comprehensive range of information and communication technology skills training that starts from the basics and progresses to advanced levels.
DICT-10 has carefully structured the curriculum, which covers a spectrum of topics, including computer and internet fundamentals, an English proficiency refresher course, and Social Media Management training.
It aims to provide participants with a well-rounded ICT education, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in today's digital landscape.
“This project series was launched last year, marking a pioneering effort to provide training to Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) from the Male Dormitory of Cagayan de Oro City Jail. The series of training aim to foster hope in reintegrating them to the community upon their release from the facility,” DICT-10 Information System Researcher Jaymark Dumio said.
Dumio reported that 23 PDLs have completed the program. This initiative will not only help them acquire new skills but will lead them to spend less time behind bars.
He added that three PDLs have been released from the facility to date, with one of the three successfully employed in a Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) company.
Expanding the reach of its LAMDAG project implementation, DICT is now welcoming 28 new participants from various municipalities and cities in Misamis Oriental, including Cagayan de Oro City.
The participants will undergo a series of training phases. Phase 1 will cover the digital literacy training that will run for 10 days, at eight hours per day. Phase 2 covers the DigitalJobsPH freelance training for 33 days, and Phase 3 is monitoring and evaluation, where the department will monitor participants’ performance for three to six months.
“As we commence this endeavor as a united front, let us remember that our work here today has the power to shape not only the future of Misamis Oriental but also the destiny of our beloved Northern Mindanao. Let us strive to make a difference by reducing the digital divide and creating a world where opportunities are truly accessible to all,” DICT-10 Regional Director Sittie Rahma V. Alawi said.
With a distinct aim, DICT-10 is committed to fulfilling its vow to empower marginalized communities with ICT skills, promote entrepreneurship and innovation, reduce the digital divide, and create a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability.
As the LAMDAG progresses, DICT-10 looks forward to witnessing the growth and development of learners as each individual acquires the essential ICT skills while preparing themselves for opportunities ahead of them after the program.
LAMDAG is much more than a training program. It is a stepping stone towards a brighter future that benefits the community. (JAKA/PIA10)
