ROTA Rolls Out Sixth Batch of Better Connections Programme
- Volunteers Trained to Provide ICT Support to Companies and Workers
Doha, Qatar, 30 October 2016: Reach Out to Asia (ROTA) has kicked off the sixth batch of the ‘Better Connections’ programme, which aims to improve thesocial wellbeing of migrant workers in Qatar by providing them with information and communication technology (ICT) equipment and skills.
On 23rd September, volunteers received in-depth training enabling them to offer technical support to companies in setting up computer rooms at migrant worker accommodation. Additionally, on 7th October, volunteers were taught how to provide workers with ICT literacy training to ensure they are equipped with the skills to utilise the facilities.
The ‘Better Connections’ programme was officially launched by the Ministry of Transport and Communications, with ROTA’s role being sponsored by Msheireb Properties, a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF). Msheireb Properties’ mission is to change the way people think about urban living through innovations that encourage social interaction, a respect for culture, and greater care for the environment. Microsoft Qatar and the Sheikh Thani Bin Abdullah Foundation for Humanitarian Services (RAF) are implementing partners in the programme.
Waleed al-Amri, a ‘Better Connections’ volunteer, said: “ROTA's Better Connections training programme provides volunteers with the opportunity to learn new skills, and aims to improve the lives of migrant workers in Qatar, allowing for better communication with their families and communities back home.”
ROTA, a member of Qatar Foundation, joined ‘Better Connections’ in 2015. Since then, the programme has trained a total of 148 volunteers who have gone on to train more than 745 ‘Digital Champions’ as part of the social development initiative.
Anwar Abdulbaki, ICT for Education Manager at ROTA, said: “We are extremely thankful to the enthusiastic group of volunteers who are fully committed to improving the social well-being of migrant workers by giving them the opportunity to gain essential ICT skills. Through the Better Connections programme, our volunteers and partner companies are actively contributing to the Qatar National Vision 2030 and to building a knowledge-based economy in Qatar by investing in human capital.”
Noora Al Rumaihi, Supervisor in Communication and Public Relations at Msheireb Properties, said: “Msheireb Properties is committed to giving back to communities in Qatar. Through our continued partnership with ROTA and programmes such as Better Connections, we are more effectively able to continue to enact solutions to local challenges and to facilitate significant differences in the lives of others while also creating a long-lasting impact in the communities where they live and work.”
