Every three months, young women walk into the St. Kizito Computer Training Centre with little or no computer experience. Three months later, they graduate with practical digital skills, renewed confidence, and the tools to pursue employment, entrepreneurship, higher education, and meaningful participation in an increasingly digital world.

Since its establishment in 2023, the Computer Training Centre has equipped more than 1,200 young South Sudanese women with practical digital skills, helping to bridge South Sudan’s digital gender gap and opening doors to new educational and economic opportunities.

In today’s digital age, technology and digital literacy are no longer optional, they are essential. Yet for many young women in South Sudan, access to digital education remains limited due to inadequate access to computers and reliable internet, poor telecommunications infrastructure, online safety concerns, and persistent gender inequalities. These barriers continue to prevent many women from accessing education, employment, entrepreneurship, and information in an increasingly connected world.

Recognizing this challenge, Eve Organization for Women Development, in partnership with St. Kizito Catholic Parish, established the Multi-purpose Vocational Training Centre under the Empowerment through the Digital Literacy Initiative, funded by the U.S. Embassy in Juba from 2023 to 2025. The initiative was designed to bridge the digital divide by equipping young women with practical digital skills while promoting the safe and responsible use of technology.

“Digital literacy is more than learning to use a computer, it is about unlocking opportunities. Every young woman we train gains the confidence and skills to participate in education, employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership in today’s digital world.” Said Mrs. Rita Lopidia Executive Director, Eve Organization for Women Development

Since opening its doors, the Computer Training Centre has become a vibrant hub for learning and innovation. Through a comprehensive three-month training, participants gain practical skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, email communication, internet navigation, online productivity tools, and digital safety and security. Beyond technical knowledge, the programme empowers young women to use digital technologies confidently, responsibly, and securely in their everyday lives.

In June 2026, the Centre celebrated another significant milestone with the graduation of its seventh cohort. More than 90 young women successfully completed the programme and received certificates recognizing their achievements.

The graduation marked more than the completion of a training course. It symbolized the successful revival of the initiative after nearly a year of inactivity following funding cuts in 2025. The return of the programme demonstrated both the resilience of Eve Organization for Women Development and the determination of young women who remained eager to build their digital skills despite the interruption.

For many participants, the training has been life-changing.

“Before joining the Computer Training Centre, I had never touched a computer. Today I can prepare professional documents, analyse data using Excel, create presentations, and communicate through email confidently. These skills have given me confidence and hope for a better future.” Said Christine Faith Mathew.

“Because of St. Kizito Computer Training Center, I can now confidently apply for jobs that require computer skills, help others use computers, and continue building my future with confidence.” Nyidhuor Job Dharuai.

The impact of the initiative extends far beyond computer literacy. Graduates leave with stronger self-confidence, improved employability, and greater opportunities to pursue further education, establish small businesses, and compete in an increasingly digital labour market. Many also use their new skills to support community initiatives, improve communication, and access online information and services that were previously out of reach.

Beyond technical training, the Centre provides a platform for women to participate in seminars, mentorship sessions, webinars, and leadership discussions that strengthen communication, critical thinking, and life skills. By increasing access to information and digital platforms, the initiative empowers young women to engage more actively in community and national conversations while challenging social and cultural norms that have historically limited women’s participation in development.

As part of its commitment to innovation, the Computer Training Centre continues to embrace digital transformation in its own operations. The current eighth cohort is learning in a fully digital environment where attendance records, learning materials, assignments, assessments, and examinations are managed electronically. This paperless approach not only promotes environmental sustainability but also provides participants with practical experience using the same digital tools increasingly required in modern workplaces.

Reflecting on the programme’s impact, the Manager of St. Kizito Computer Training Center Mawa Minga noted:

“Watching young women transform from complete beginners into confident computer users is incredibly rewarding to witness. Our graduates Every cohort reminds us that digital skills have the power to change lives, strengthen communities, and create new possibilities for the future.“

‘‘Their success motivates us to continue empowering young people through digital literacy the manager added

The continued success of the Computer Training Centre reflects Eve Organization for Women Development’s broader vision of building an inclusive digital future for women and girls in South Sudan. By combining digital literacy with online safety, leadership development, and practical life skills, the initiative is nurturing a generation of women who are better equipped to contribute to their communities, strengthen the country’s economy, and drive positive social change.

For every young woman who graduates from the Centre, digital literacy becomes more than a technical skill it becomes a pathway to opportunity, independence, and leadership. As the demand for digital skills continues to grow, Eve Organization for Women Development remains committed to expanding access to quality digital education, ensuring that more women and girls gain the knowledge, confidence, and resilience needed to thrive in the digital age and contribute meaningfully to South Sudan’s development.