Minister of State for Social Development, the Hon Loretta Butler-Turner (fourth right) is pictured with graduates as they display their certificates – their connection to the information age.
Nassau, Bahamas – Twenty-five seniors have entered the computer age.
They were given certificates of competency after participating in an eight-week Senior Citizen’s Computer Course at East Street Gospel Chapel, July 24.
Organized by the National Council for Older Persons, the program has the backing of the Ministry of Labor and Social Development.
Held for the third time, the course was designed to teach participants how to use the computer and operate over the Internet.
Course instructor was Dr June Wilson, Assistant Professor at the College of the Bahamas.
Seniors said they were delighted to have the world at their fingertips and felt pleased to be able to keep in touch with family and acquaintances so easily.
“We must uplift our older people,” said Minister of State for Social Development, the Hon Loretta Butler.
“People today have unprecedented access to information and communication and it is having a significant impact on our world and the way we relate and interrelate to each other.
“I think this whole new world of computers has made you young again,” she told them. “And I know what you will be asking for this Christmas – laptop computers.”
They applauded in agreement.
“You should be very proud to be a part of this movement,” the Minister continued. “These things effect opportunities, and greatly multiply your ability to interact with the worldwide network.
“I am pleased that you have embraced the challenge and are now confident and comfortable with the technology. You should be proud of your accomplishments.”
She decried the notion that age is a barrier to learning. “Every success is a new adventure,” she said.
“Today you may learn to navigate the keyboard, and surf the web, and many of you are already emailing family members and chatting among yourselves online.”
