The Open University is a partner in Race Online 2012 – the nationwide challenge which aims to get everyone online by the end of the Olympic year.
With a student and alumni community numbering almost two million nationwide, the University has pledged to find and enthuse new ‘digital champions’ willing to help their friends, family and neighbours to get online.
Of the 10 million adults across the UK who’ve never used the internet, almost half are from socially excluded groups, according to Race Online 2012 organisers.
That makes the partnership a great fit with the OU's mission of openness of access and opportunity.
Race Online 2012 leader Martha Lane-Fox said:" Being able to use the internet changes and improves lives - from better access to education, employment, health and communication, plus increased enjoyment and community cohesion - we can see the vital importance of making digital inclusion a priority."
Succeeding in the challenge would make the UK the first nation in the world where everyone can use the web, she added.
get involved
Among the ways to get involved are:· showing ‘non-liners’ the benefits of being on the web; pointing them to free internet training; donating old equipment; involving friends, family or colleagues.
Links
- join Platform's Race Online 2012 group
- find out more at the Race Online 2012 website
- follow the Race Online 2012 blog