Digital skills and education
Building confidence and capabilities to thrive in a digital world
About Skills Upload Europe
In partnership with communities, educators, NGOs and governments, we run tailored programmes in 13 European countries that help anyone build their digital capabilities, know-how and confidence, regardless of their age, background or where they call home.
As the world’s progress towards a digital society accelerates, we believe that no-one should be excluded or left behind on the journey. In fact, we are determined to ensure everyone is able to both survive and thrive in a technology-led world – from doing everyday things like booking a doctor’s appointment, buying groceries and catching up with friends and family, to choosing to pursue bigger life ambitions, such as starting a new business, working remotely or petitioning government for change.
Our programmes aim to benefit the whole of society, but focus primarily on sections where we believe the need is greatest: primary school children; secondary school pupils; and older people.
Crucially, each of the programmes is rooted in a deep understanding of the specific needs and circumstances of its local people and communities, covering everything from how to use certain technologies and devices, to abilities like critical-thinking and how to guard against online risks such as identity theft and fake news.
16 million
learners across Europe by 2025
Tailored digital programmes across 13 European countries
Supporting students and educators, young people not in employment and over-65s
Skills Upload Jr
Driving inclusivity through digital learning
Part of Vodafone Foundation’s work in Europe, Skills Upload Jr is a programme that provides digital skills, access, training and support for school student and teachers, ensuring everyone has the digital skills they need to feel like they belong.
We work in eight countries to help students gain the confidence to explore their curiosity, whatever their background, gender or where they call home. And we support teachers to use digital skills across the entire curriculum with tools from smart devices to artificial intelligence, robotics to augmented reality.
In our ever-changing world, we want to ensure no one gets left behind. We’re providing digital skills that break down inequalities and enable everyone to feel safe, happy, confident and connected.
Skills Upload Jr, providing digital skills for life.
Available in the following countries. Select for local content:
HiDigital
Lifelong learning for older people seeking digital skills
There is a growing digital divide between generations. As our services and communities are increasingly moving online, it is more important than ever to ensure no-one is left behind on the journey to a digital world.
Hi Digital is a step-by-step course designed for anyone who needs a bit of help developing their digital skills, particularly those who have rarely or never been online (often 65+ years old).
The course has been developed by Vodafone Foundation, in partnership with ALONE. It consists of bite-sized lessons organised around key digital themes including: the basics of internet access and how to use your smartphone and other devices; researching hobbies and organising travel; using Apps; and an introduction to online banking
Participants can work independently or alongside a mentor over a number of weeks to complete all of the lessons. Others may have assistance from their children, grandchildren, or other people from their community.
Available in the following countries. Select for local content:
Research and publications
The Growing Role of AI in Education
Research into European students’ perceptions, usage, and concerns regarding artificial intelligence (AI) in education.
The report examines the potential risk of a widening digital divide caused by disparities in students’ starting conditions, with 74% believing that AI would play a significant role in their professional lives, but less than half feeling adequately prepared by their schools to engage with the new technology.
21st Century Parents
A survey of parents in 10 European countries shows strong support for digital literacy being treated as a key learning objective in school, with 73% in favour of European standards for the teaching of digital skills.
Youth study on digital education in Germany
Vodafone Germany Foundation published a survey on young people about their digital education in Germany. Around 70% of those entering the workforce do not feel fit for the digital world of work. Computer science is a regular school subject for only 54% of students surveyed. At the same time, 79% of all young people see digital skills as particularly important for the future.
21st Century Teachers
How the societal and technological demands of the 21st Century are changing the way we learn and teach
A survey of teachers from 11 European countries reveals that a fifth of European teachers have little to no experience teaching with technology, while three-quarters believe government have unrealistic expectations towards digital teaching and support the idea of European education standards.
A report by OECD & Vodafone Germany Foundation
Less than 1 in 10 European students can successfully distinguish fact from opinions. As a result of the emerging digital learning gap, we’re at risk of an online ‘infodemic’ as students from disadvantaged backgrounds fall behind in digital literacy skills.
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