Northern Malawi Digital Skills & Online Employment Pilot
Rumphi and Karonga have high mobile coverage, but <18% of youth can use the internet for income. 60% of trained youth leave the North for low-paying jobs in urban areas. Malawi loses human capital.
The project seeks to improve digital literacy, employability, and entrepreneurship opportunities among young people in Malawi. The project will establish a fully functional ICT training centre equipped with modern computers, internet connectivity, and qualified trainers.
The project aims to train 200 youth in basic and intermediate ICT skills, including computer operations, Microsoft Office applications, internet usage, graphic design, and digital entrepreneurship. By equipping youth with practical ICT competencies, the project will support job creation, income generation, and economic empowerment.
The project will be implemented over 12 months and requires a total budget of USD 38,500
Project Background
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a critical role in education, employment, innovation, and economic growth. However, many young people in Malawi have limited access to ICT facilities and training opportunities.
Most vulnerable youth lack the practical computer skills employers require and the business opportunities available through digital platforms. Limited ICT infrastructure and high training costs continue to widen the digital divide.
This project seeks to address these challenges by establishing an ICT training centre where youth can access computers, internet services, and practical digital skills training.
Goal & Objectives
PROJECT GOAL
To improve digital literacy and enhance employment and entrepreneurship opportunities among youth through practical ICT skills development.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
Specific Objectives
To train 200 youth in ICT skills within 12 months.
To establish and equip an ICT training centre.
To improve access to computers and internet services.
To promote digital entrepreneurship and innovation.
To enhance youth employability and self-reliance.
Beneficiaries
The project will directly benefit:
200 rural youth aged 15–35 years (50% female, including 20 youth with disabilities) with employable ICT and online work skills in 6 months, and link 100 to paid digital work.
Vulnerable and disadvantaged youth.
Community-based youth groups.
Indirect beneficiaries include families, local businesses, and community institutions.