As part of the "Reducing the Digital Gap" project, which the Red Cross of Serbia is implementing in cooperation with the United Nations Population Fund in Serbia (UNFPA), a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed on October 21 in the local government of Zaječar. This Memorandum, related to reducing the digital gap and promoting healthy aging, was signed between the Zaječar Red Cross, the Social Welfare Center, and the City of Zaječar, aiming to support older people in improving their digital knowledge and skills. Zaječar is the first of six local governments to sign this Memorandum. Through this project, the Red Cross is not only enhancing the knowledge and skills of older individuals but is also combating age discrimination and stereotypes that suggest older people are unwilling or unable to use digital technology. These trainings also serve to collect information on recommendations for ensuring easier access and design tailored to older adults, not just the young.

In the Grand Hall of the City Assembly, 24 older individuals received certificates for successfully completing the training, and many of them also committed to volunteering to pass on their knowledge to other older individuals, particularly those living in rural areas.

Each participant in the training completed five sessions covering various topics: from creating accounts on email services, eServices (renewing and creating new documents), eGovernment (health and other services), as well as eBanking.

This project is part of the “PRO – Local Governance for People and Nature” program, jointly implemented by UN agencies in Serbia – UNOPS, UNICEF, UNFPA, and UNEP, in cooperation with the Government of the Republic of Serbia and with financial support from the Government of Switzerland.