Enriching Communities through Student-Led Technology Training
(Alamo, Texas • October 9, 2024) Building on the success as a pilot program last spring, IDRA launched a new phase of the IDRA Digital Ambassadors program in the Texas Rio Grande Valley. In our partnership with ARISE Adelante, the program bridges the digital divide by supporting students as leaders and technology trainers for their local communities.
The digital divide is a key issue raised during Digital Inclusion Week (Oct 7-11). The ability to harness technology is not just a skill but a necessity for economic empowerment and meaningful participation in society. But disparities in technology access and education continue to widen the digital divide, particularly in underserved communities.
In IDRA’s program, students first engage in comprehensive participatory action research to identify the most pressing technology needs within their community. They embark on a rigorous learning journey to master key skills. They then lead community event where they provide vital hands-on bilingual technological training to community members.
Student representatives described their experience in a new IDRA Classnotes Podcast episode. They discussed the importance of student-driven programs in the community and how the IDRA Digital Ambassadors benefitted communities and the students themselves as leaders. As the students looked to help others, they also gained skills in public speaking and teaching adults with a diverse set of backgrounds and skill levels.
Ashly said, “I wanted to help elderly people understand how to use electronics, like computers, cell phones, and stuff like that.”
Carlos said: “I get to help out other people who still don’t know how to use the Internet that well. I learned that more people struggle with technology than what I thought. Hopefully, with the knowledge that I’ve gained, I can help other people.”
The new phase for 2024-25, is made possible by the generous support of Valley Baptist Legacy Foundation and Methodist Healthcare Ministries.
Contact: For more information or if you are interested in bringing TechXperts to your school, contact michelle.vega@idra.org.
Media contact: Thomas Marshall III, M.Ed., thomas.marshall@idra.org.
Listen to our new interview with IDRA Digital Ambassadors
Anavi Prakash speaks with students Carlos and Ashly and youth leader Gabriela Benitez about IDRA’s Digital Ambassadors program, where students provide technology training after researching community needs and mastering those skills themselves.
Recent Podcasts 