05 Mar “Bringing Technology Closer”: a youth project connecting generations in Cuencas Mineras
The project “Bringing Technology Closer”, led by students from IES Fernando Lázaro Carreter in Utrillas, has been selected in the second call of our most special awards, the Gloria Villalba Awards.
After last year’s experience working with older adults through the Youth Citizen Support Office, the group of young participants decided to continue this work, focusing on reducing the digital divide that still affects many elderly people in rural areas.
The initiative, which aims to bring technology closer to older people and improve their quality of life, has already been underway for a month and includes two main lines of action:
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Group classes on mobile phone use and digital platforms, where participants learn how to use applications, communicate with family members and carry out basic online tasks.
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Training in the use of voice assistants with artificial intelligence, such as Alexa, to help with everyday tasks at home.
As part of the initiative, a smart voice assistance device has been acquired and installed at the Utrillas Day Centre and at the ATADI Utrillas residence.
The young participants visit both spaces weekly to carry out personalised training sessions, teaching older users how to use the voice assistant for tasks such as setting reminders, listening to music, checking the weather or making calls.
Young people committed to their community
The project involves 1st and 2nd year Basic Vocational Training students, supported by their teachers and several professionals and partner organisations in the area, including:
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The Acompañando Cuencas Mineras programme
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Regional Social Services
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Cruz Roja (Red Cross)
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The regional youth service
Technology to combat loneliness
Beyond technological learning, “Bringing Technology Closer” also has an important social dimension. It serves as a tool to reduce the digital divide in rural areas, bring technology closer to older people and help alleviate unwanted loneliness.
Through initiatives like this, young people not only gain experience and skills, but also become active agents of change in their communities, helping to build more connected, inclusive and supportive societies.
“Bringing Technology Closer” shows that when youth and experience come together, technology can become a powerful tool to create connections, make everyday life easier and strengthen social cohesion in the towns of Cuencas Mineras.
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