Tech skills roadshow for seniors at Silver IT Fest 2017

A course being conducted in Malay at IDA's IT Silver Fest 2016 at ITE. PHOTO: KARTINI ABDUL RAHMAN

SINGAPORE - Older Singaporeans who want to get in on the digital action by learning how to make better use of their smartphones, get proficient with social media, or learn to play games to keep their reflexes sharp will be able to get lessons and tips during the Silver IT Fest over the weekend.

The two-day roadshow - to be held on June 10 and 11 at the Lifelong Learning Institute - will contain tech seminars, exhibition booths and a new smartphone clinic to guide those aged 50 and above on how to make the most of their devices.

Seniors can join a series of 45-minute seminars revolving around smartphone use, which provide tips for both Android phones and iPhones, and how to use helpful apps such as MyTransport, Health Buddy and Police@SG.

Two speakers from Singapore Press Holdings will also guide seniors on how to download and use newspaper apps, such as the digital versions of The Straits Times and Lianhe Zaobao.

The Silver IT Fest, now in its 11th year, is organised by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and aims to promote digital literacy amongst seniors aged 50 and above.

Exhibitors such as tech brands Apple and Huawei, government agencies, and schools will be on hand to showcase new technologies and offer tips on data protection, social media and online security for seniors to stay connected and safe online.

Attendees can try their hands at locally-developed games, such as Fruit Catch and the augmented reality game Central Quest, which trains motor skills and reflexes.

Seniors can also sign up for IT classes held at various voluntary welfare organisations or People's Association grassroots organisations like Caritas Singapore and RSVP Singapore.

These classes include basic IT skills such as how to operate a Windows computer and use cloud storage services, and how to get started with digital banking and e-banking apps.

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