On 13th March 2023, the Canadian Government announced that over 23 non-profit organizations nationwide will receive funding of $17.6 million for improving digital literacy in Canada. This will be done through the Digital Literacy Exchange Program (DLEP).
Since its inception, the DLEP has sought to equip candidates with industry-relevant skills to engage effectively with computers. In simpler words, the Government stated that this significant investment would support the organizations in teaching and improving digital literacy skills to candidates who need it the most!
Digital Literacy Among Canadian Immigrants
Canada Immigration is highly prevalent. Often, the newest Canadian immigrants immigrate from different countries. Unfortunately, digital literacy is not as developed and extensive in those countries as in Canada.
In fact, the Digital Skill Gap Index of 2021 states that seven of Canada’s top ten recent immigrant source countries rank below 45th place in ‘digital skills among population’.
So, here are those seven countries ranked by Canadian Immigrants percentage.
Wiley ranked India at 59th position. First, it is the source country providing 18.6% of candidates. Secondly, China offers 8.9% of candidates, securing the 46th position.
The following are the five countries alongside India & China.
- Syria (4.8%) – Unranked
- Nigeria (3.0%) – 119th
- Pakistan (2.7%) – 77th
- France (2.0%) – 54th
- Iran (1.9%) – 79th
The Philippines, from which 11.4% of Canada’s immigrants arrived between 2016-2021, ranks in the 21st position. Moreover, the United States (3%) ranked 12th. And finally, the United Kingdom (1.7%) ranked 29th.
Improving Digital Literacy: How this investment can benefit Immigrants
The funding for improving digital literacy in Canada will help sharpen the skills and increase the immigrant’s comfort level with advanced digital technologies.
Developing these skills will be vital in the long run as the workforce is rapidly becoming increasingly digital.
The government press release stated the following:
‘Immigrants will be able to use the internet safely while booking a medical appointment, doing online transactions, looking for a job, etc’.
Noting the value of a digital skillset, the press release also asserted the following:
‘Learning these skills & understanding digital technology will help candidates access valuable information and open up new opportunities to succeed in life’.
As the Government takes a step forward to improving digital literacy in Canada, all Canadians can take advantage of resources provided through this investment. In addition, the government will specifically position the new immigrants to develop digital literacy skills. This will help them utilize the skills to grow and maintain successful careers & lives across this country.
