Building ICT skills for Employability: Piloting a virtual training model for the Caribbean School of Data

Abstract

Technology has radically changed our societies to the extent that skills in ICT (Information and Communications Technologies) are becoming a key asset for boosting employability. Therefore, it is increasingly important for individuals employed under roles that stand the risk of becoming obsolete, to fast-track their professional development through upskilling initiatives. To support this effort, organizations around the world have been taking the lead. An example of such an initiative is the CSOD's (Caribbean School of Data) ‘scale up’ project, which offers digital/data literacy training programs to marginalized youth across the Caribbean region. Prior to the covid-19 pandemic, CSOD's training model applied a blended approach; however, to facilitate safe operations during the pandemic, the model was implemented fully remote, thus presenting an opportunity to learn about potential strengths and weaknesses of running an ICT training program virtually. The virtual training model for delivering the CSOD program resulted in several positive and notable findings. Therefore, the components of the model, as well as the lessons learned from its implementation may be of value to entities interested in delivering or improving their virtual training programs.