A free computer literacy program designed to help older adults navigate today's digital world is returning to Moose Jaw following a successful pilot earlier this year.

Nanan Academy is once again partnering with the Palliser Regional Library and the Canadian Red Cross through the Sask Seniors Connect Hub to offer its six-week Computer Basics course beginning Aug. 4 at the Moose Jaw Public Library.

Nanan Academy co-founder and academic director Shaun Nanan said the program was created to help older adults feel more confident using technology that has become part of everyday life.

"We live in a digital world," said Nanan. "Banking, online shopping, paying bills, it's all digital. Even when you want to park your car, you use an app. It's important for everyone to be educated and to be part of this digital citizenship."

Building confidence with technology

The free course is geared toward adults aged 55 and older and runs Tuesdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the library. Over six weekly sessions, participants will learn practical computer skills, including internet browsing, email etiquette, video conferencing, social media and cloud computing.

Nanan said the pilot program, which ran from March through June, was well received by participants.

"They wanted more, which is why we're starting again," he said. "That was a good sign that people learned something, took something away from it and wanted to continue."

He added that participants finished the course feeling more confident using technology and making decisions online.

"They're more confident in their browsing practices and whether they should click on a link or not. They understand things like two-factor authentication and using strong passwords. Those are practical skills they can use every day."

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Staying safe online

Along with computer basics, Nanan Academy also offers an Online Safety course that focuses on recognizing phishing scams, identifying secure websites, creating strong passwords and responding appropriately to suspicious emails or text messages.

"There are so many scams happening out there, and they're getting more sophisticated with AI," said Nanan. "Seniors in particular are often the target for these scams, so we want to educate people on how to protect themselves."

"The key is education," he added. "Everybody can get trapped in a scam. It doesn't matter your age. It's about empowering the community."

seniorsclassPhoto credit: Nanan Academy.

Community partnerships make program possible

Nanan said the partnerships behind the program have been essential in making it available free of charge.

"Without those partnerships, it wouldn't exist," he said. "We're very grateful for the support from the Canadian Red Cross and the Palliser Regional Library. They've helped organize everything and make these classes available."

Registration through the Sask Seniors Connect Hub will be available, but anyone interested can simply attend the first class on Aug. 4 and staff will help complete the registration process.

"We have a great program," Nanan said. "We hope to see everyone come in, check it out and have some fun while learning new skills."

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