Skills Upload Jr

"Skills Upload Jr" is an initiative by the Vodafone Foundation dedicated to addressing the digital skills gap and transforming K-12 education across Europe. Launched with the mission to make education systems more resilient, equitable, and innovative, the programme operates in Albania, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain, and Turkey. By leveraging technology and partnering with key public and private entities, Skills Upload Jr aims to empower educators and students, building an inclusive, green, and digital Europe.

Who are the Beneficiaries?

The primary beneficiaries of Skills Upload Jr are educators and students in both formal and informal education settings. The programme prioritises those from underprivileged backgrounds or with limited access to technology, including girls, students from low socioeconomic backgrounds, and those in rural areas. By running the initiative in schools and tech hubs, Skills Upload Jr also impacts the broader education community, bringing technology closer to parents and other students.

Current Impact

Since its launch in 2021, Skills Upload Jr has significantly impacted the lives of over 4 million students and teachers. The initiative has directly trained 510,000 students and educators, reached 670,000 individuals through its content platforms, and benefited over 3 million people through educational campaigns. Indirectly, the programme has touched the lives of 19 million individuals. Furthermore, Skills Upload Jr has reached more than 7,500 schools, created or co-funded 224 tech hubs, conducted 6,000 workshops, and integrated its teachings into 39 university degrees for future teachers.

Why is it a Good Practice?

Skills Upload Jr addresses critical digital literacy gaps, with more than one-fifth of young people across the EU failing to reach a basic level of digital skills and less than 40% of educators feeling ready to use digital technologies in teaching. The initiative combats rural, socioeconomic, and gender inequalities in access to digital education opportunities. By providing cutting-edge educational resources guided by EU DigComp and other frameworks, the programme stimulates creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and communication skills among educators and youth. Synchronous training sessions, an open online platform, and public-private collaboration ensure the programme's effectiveness and sustainability. Skills Upload Jr also offers technological equipment when necessary, enhancing digital infrastructure in schools. This inclusive approach ensures that underrepresented groups have access to high-quality education, meeting them with the resources they need to thrive. Skills Upload Jr exemplifies successful international cooperation in educational innovation by empowering educators and students, fostering a digitally literate and inclusive society.