Technology
Makaia Trains 500+ Older Bogotá Adults in Digital Skills Through New Partnership
Makaia's targeted training reaches older adults through a focused partnership that adds concrete ICT options in Bogotá.
How we reported this
Non-profit Makaia launched its Digital Literacy Initiative in May 2024 in partnership with Scotiabank Colpatria, training 70 adults over age 50 in ICT skills across Bogotá.
The effort stands out because it addresses a documented gap for residents who have had fewer chances to build digital confidence. Bogotá already runs multiple public programs that serve younger groups and general users, yet programs aimed at adults over 50 remain limited. Makaia fills that space with practical sessions that cover everyday tools and online navigation.
BibloRed and the city network
BibloRed operates 145 public libraries and reading spaces that deliver free workshops under the names Alfabetización Digital for adults and CreaTIC for children and youth. These sessions focus on coding and digital content creation. The Bogotá Digital Library supplies remote access to more than 2 million educational and cultural items through bibliotecadigitaldebogota.gov.co. New QR code points now appear on 120 electric TransMilenio buses that also carry Wi-Fi and USB ports, allowing riders to reach the same collection while traveling.
City officials have placed 39 free digital inclusion points in 15 Casas de Oportunidad, 10 Puntos Vive Digital, and 14 Portales Interactivos located in Ciudad Bolívar. These sites provide TIC training open to people aged 4 to 90. Fundación Casa del Bosque adds another layer by running courses in web technologies, 3D animation, and programming while studying the social digital divide in Colombia.
Practical next steps
Residents can locate the nearest BibloRed location or inclusion point through the district library website or by visiting any of the 39 listed sites. Those interested in the Makaia program can check current enrollment details through the organization's site or local institute partners. The combination of fixed centers, mobile bus access, and age-specific workshops gives Bogotá a layered set of options that continues to grow through existing public and non-profit channels.