The Project

Prior to COVID-19, young people in Scotland were already experiencing high levels of digital literacy issues that acted as a barrier to employment and education opportunities in later life. In particular a lack of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) opportunities for young people aged 15 and 16-year-olds left them at a disadvantage as they entered the workforce.  

During a global pandemic, the lack of digital literacy skills,  particularly in young people from less affluent households, widened the digital literacy gap further. As the lockdown restrictions were lifted, the YMCA Scotland Makerspace Digital Learning Project created online and in person spaces for young people to improve their digital literacy, socialise and reconnect with peer groups who they have not seen in over a year. 

Working across the three communities Makerspace has developed local community assets to support digitally excluded young people from marginalised groups to gain access to technology and qualifications to further their educational accreditation by creating safe spaces for them to learn and receive mentorships from expert coaches. The young people engaged in the project received increased opportunities  to attend college or university, while other participants have interned at tech companies contributing to the growth of Scotland’s digital economy.

This project is part of the Big Six