Empowering communities by advancing digital literacy

Digital literacy is essential to economic mobility, civic engagement and workforce readiness in today’s communities. Extension programs at 1890 land‑grant universities play a vital role in expanding opportunities in rural and urban communities to build technology skills and support workforce development.

Here are a few examples of that work:

• In Georgia, an Extension initiative is strengthening connectivity and technology skills across three counties through partnerships with libraries, community centers and local governments. The effort delivered more than 700 devices, established new computer labs and WiFi access points and expanded six education programs, building digital skills, supporting workforce readiness and improving services for residents of all ages.
  Fort Valley State University Cooperative Extension Program. See full statement.

• Extension professionals in Alabama delivered a computer training program that strengthened older adults’ cognitive function, communication with family and friends, and independence while reducing isolation experienced during and after the COVID19 pandemic. As a result, 216 participants increased their knowledge of computers and purchasing considerations, 191 gained essential 19 pandemic. As a result, 216 participants increased their knowledge of computers and purchasing considerations, 191 gained essential word processing skills and others improved online etiquette and mobile device use to manage daily tasks.
  Alabama Cooperative Extension System – Alabama A&M University. Supported by 1890 Extension capacity funds. See full statement.

• In 2025, West Virginia Extension professionals partnered with a community organization to deliver a six-week youth podcasting workshop that built students’ digital literacy, communication skills and confidence. Each middle and high school participant produced an original podcast episode, gaining hands-on experience with professional tools while strengthening public speaking, collaboration and responsible media practices.
  West Virginia State University Cooperative Extension Program. Supported by 1890 Extension capacity funds; USDA Capacity – Extension. See full statement.

• In 2024, Texas Extension professionals launched a workforce initiative supported by a $350,000 grant to expand career-aligned training and certification opportunities. The initiative expanded workforce opportunities in rural Texas by providing high‑demand technical training and certifications through four pre‑apprenticeship pathways. Of 72 participants, 46 earned credentials and 27 secured full‑time employment at an average wage of $21.14 per hour. The program strengthened regional workforce capacity while increasing economic mobility for rural populations.
  Prairie View A&M University Cooperative Extension Program. Supported by 1890 Extension capacity funds. See full statement.