SINGAPORE: More than 210,000 seniors have joined a programme to help them develop digital literacy since 2020, said Minister for Communications and Information Josephine Teo on Wednesday (Nov 30).
She was responding to a parliamentary question from MP Lim Biow Chuan (PAP-Mountbatten) about how the Government helps residents who are not digitally literate and how it communicates with residents who do not have email.
“The Government fully recognises that not everyone is comfortable using digital tools,” said the minister, noting that under the Seniors Go Digital programme, residents can visit SG Digital community hubs at selected libraries and community centres to receive one-to-one or small group training on digital skills.
This could include cybersecurity tips on how to stay safe online, as well as how to use a smartphone or make e-payments, she added.
Many agencies also provide in-person and contact centre services to help those who might have difficulties with online government services, said Mrs Teo.
“The Public Service has also set up five ServiceSG Centres to serve as one-stop physical touchpoints where officers can guide residents through digital transactions and help them complete frequently used government services across 20 agencies,” she added.
Offline channels “remain critical” for the Government to communicate with residents who are less digitally savvy, said Mrs Teo, noting that the use of digital communication channels has increased.
“On top of newspaper publications and broadcasts via free-to-air television and radio, many government agencies inform residents of key policy announcements through hardcopy letters, via the digital display panels at HDB blocks and even through house visits,” she added.
For example, the Silver Generation Office reaches out to residents to communicate government policies and guide seniors in applying for digital assistance schemes online.
“Even as more services digitalise, the Government remains committed to maintaining an inclusive society and will continue to ensure that residents can communicate and transact with the Government, regardless of their digital ability,” she said.
