06/02/2023
The Gifted Artisan: Koibi Gao Poyo
Mr. Koibi Gao Poyo is a skilled artisan, born and raised in a remote village called Dona in Morobe Patrol Post, Morobe Province. He is gifted in the art of weaving cane furniture.
For years, he battled against the odds to sell his beautiful creations.
But in a small village, his reach is always limited and confined to mere whispers of his work to attract a handful of customers.
However, with the emergence of the all-powerful internet and its far-reaching connectivity, his world is about to explode with endless possibilities. He can harness the power of social media platforms, like Facebook and Instagram, to showcase his magnificent pieces to a vast audience of potential customers from every corner of the globe.
"I am overflowing with gratitude for the internet and the doors it has unlocked for me. It has given me a voice and a platform to share my art with a wider audience, allowing me to earn a living doing what I am truly passionate about"
Unfortunately, the story takes another sad twist. He now understands the potential of the internet to change his life, right in the village. The challenge is that he lacks the business expertise, let alone the digital skills he needs to build a successful business using .
There is a need for to be taught in rural villages and even in towns and cities as well. Digital literacy can help bridge the digital divide and provide village communities with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age.
Village people need digital literacy for several reasons:
1. Improved access to information: The internet provides a wealth of information that can be beneficial for village communities, from educational resources to healthcare information. Digital literacy can help village people access and use this information effectively.
2. Enhanced economic opportunities: With the rise of e-commerce and online marketplaces, digital literacy can help village people expand their businesses and reach new customers beyond their local community.
3. Improved communication: Digital literacy enables village people to communicate with others around the world, breaking down geographical barriers and helping them stay connected with loved ones who live far away.
4. Increased civic participation: Digital literacy empowers village people to engage in online discussions and join virtual communities, allowing them to participate in important social and political discussions and have their voices heard.