From PC components to AI: Accenture prepares Romanian youth for digital world

Accenture, a global leader in professional services, has successfully concluded the 5th edition of the Digital Skills Academy, held from March 1 to June 20, 2024. The program took place in 47 schools across the country, covering 57 classes and benefiting from partnerships with Teach for Romania, Junior Achievement Romania, and the Roma Education Fund.

“Digital Skills Academy gives us the opportunity to inspire and educate young people in the digital field. Through our program, we not only teach technical knowledge but also cultivate the creativity and critical thinking, which are essential for their future. Every child who acquires digital skills becomes a potential innovator for Romania. We are delighted to bring another year of joy to the hearts of children through the Digital Skills Academy. Together, we are building a more beautiful Romania and a successful future for the next generation,” said Aliona Hlusov, the initiator and coordinator of the Digital Skills Academy at Accenture.

A important aspect of this year’s edition was participation in the DSA Olympiad, where more than 110 projects were created by approximately 200 children. The projects, on the theme “IDEAS for Good for Our Community,” allowed children to develop and apply digital skills in initiatives to help the community. Some of the winning projects will be presented to mayors for integration into community development programs. Examples include educational posters on recycling in the village of Fundeni, ideas for sustainability and infrastructure in Sânpetru, an eco-project in Brasov and one on more efficient education in Ilfov County.

This year, the program reached over 1,110 children, aged between 9 and 14, from 47 schools. They benefited from digital skills training provided by 109 Accenture volunteers from all the cities where the company operates. Additionally, 190 children had the opportunity to visit all 6 Accenture offices in Romania, giving them a real insight into the working environment of a top company.

This year’s curriculum included topics such as “PC Components” (the evolution of computers, peripheral components, operating systems), “Using Microsoft Office Applications” (text and image introduction), “Internet Safety” (password structure, phishing, cyberbullying), “Programming in Scratch” (algorithmic thinking, game creation), and, as a novelty, “Generative AI” (generative artificial intelligence). These modules were essential in preparing the children to face the challenges of an evolving digital world.

“The Digital Skills program is an experience I recommend to everyone. It’s about combining time management and the motivation to do something tangible, with immediate feedback,” said Angela Sarafu, an Accenture volunteer. “I decided to volunteer to make a difference in the community, and the Digital Skills Academy was the perfect opportunity. It was a wonderful experience, but also a challenge, in which I discovered new things about myself. The joy and smiles of the children were a fitting reward,” added Bianca-Evelina Bălteanu, an Accenture volunteer.

Through various social engagement programs, Accenture Romania maintains its strong commitment to making a positive impact on society. The company focuses on initiatives aimed at improving the digital skills of the younger generation and creating a more equitable and inclusive technological environment.