Seattle - Computer Lab Graduates |
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March 21st, 2007 - 09:20AM |
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Photo: The IRC By Allison Azersky, education coordinator for the IRC's refugee resettlement office in Seattle Only a few months after the IRC Seattle office's new computer lab & literacy program began, Abdulkadir Idris became the first refugee participant to graduate and receive a free computer donated by the Center for World IT Education (CWITE). The program, which takes place in a five-computer lab also donated by CWITE, now has eight participants and six volunteer tutors, with more refugee clients waiting to join as the word spreads about this great opportunity. When a participant reaches a basic level of computer proficiency with the help of a personal volunteer tutor, he or she is eligible to receive a CWITE computer for home use. Setting up the computer in Abdulkadir’s home was fun for his whole family. “It was great,” said his tutor, Bob Oswald. “I could tell that not only Abdulkadir but his whole family were very excited. I think it is something that will help them a lot.” Recognizing how computer literacy relates to success in education and work in the United States, refugees are eager to learn and excited to practice both with tutors and on their own time. 'Nothing can happen without computers,' says nineteen-year-old Abdulkadir. 'If I learn computers, it will help me in my future.' Another dedicated student in the lab is Kheyro Qadiid, a recently arrived young Somali woman. “She is a quick learner!” said her tutor, TJ Musial. Giving refugees technology literacy skills is an integral part in providing them with the tools to reach self-sufficiency and achieve their life goals. Kheyro knows that computer skills will give her the power to succeed. When asked how a computer would improve her life in the U.S., Kheyro replied 'It will help you find a job and help you find out where it is.' She sat up and smiled, suddenly more confident. 'Computers give you all the information.' If you live in the Seattle area and would like to become a computer literacy tutor, please contact Allison Azersky. allison.azersky@theirc.org. To find out about IRC resettlement programs in other parts of the country: www.theirc.org/where Posted By: theirc | Children & Youth, Refugees in the U.S. Permalink |
