Sacramento State University is working to address the digital divide in underserved neighborhoods through a program aimed at increasing computer literacy and access to technology. With nearly $3 million in funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, the university is leading the Connecting Minority Communities pilot program, which focuses on providing digital skills training and resources to residents who may lack access to computers or high-speed internet.
At a recent class held at Asian Resources Inc. in Sacramento’s Lemon Hill neighborhood, Sac State student Rey Halili introduced about 20 community members, including retiree Leonard Zhong, to artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT. The session was designed as an introduction to AI and basic computer skills for participants, many of whom speak English as a second language.
“It’s like searching the web, but better,” Halili told attendees. “ChatGPT will talk to you specifically. It’s very personal.”
The program teaches participants how to use AI for tasks such as job searches, finding medical clinics, and saving money on groceries. They also learn practical computer shortcuts and become familiar with common internet terminology.
Sacramento State coordinates this initiative with partners including Sacramento City College, Valley Vision, United Way, and the California Emerging Technology Fund. The university also works alongside local organizations such as La Familia, Mutual Housing California, Boys and Girls Club, and others to deliver services directly within neighborhoods.
Guillermo Duran, project management analyst for the Connecting Minority Communities pilot program at Sac State and representative on the Sacramento Regional Consortium for Digital Equity, emphasized the impact of these efforts: “By empowering individuals with these essential skills, we aim to improve their lives and open doors to better career opportunities.”
Duran noted that many residents in areas like Lemon Hill previously worked service industry jobs before COVID-19 disrupted employment opportunities. Limited internet service or lack of technology has made it difficult for some residents to find new work. For those without home internet access, Duran said the program offers information on affordable connectivity options.
Sacramento City College has also set up a Community Engagement Lab that provides broadband internet access and computer training for local groups.
Zong Vue, assistant program manager for Asian Resources Inc., highlighted the value of these classes: “It’s very beneficial for them. A lot of them are seniors. They’re always looking for something to do and are very interested in learning new things. We are so happy to be able to work with Sac State on this.”
In addition to direct instruction from faculty members like Halili, Sacramento State has trained about 75 student digital navigators over two years who conduct sessions across neighborhood centers with plans to reach thousands more area residents.
Looking ahead, Duran said there are hopes to expand beyond Lemon Hill: “We are helping people with little or no digital experience to gain more knowledge,” he said. “We want them to get to the next level using computers to make their lives better.”
Participants such as Zhong expressed enthusiasm about gaining new skills: “I find that learning computer skills is becoming more and more important, and I want to keep up,” he said. “I’m learning new things, and I want to learn more.”
