Centre for Innovation
Building Resilience through Digital Transformation: The new Strategy of the Roma Education Fund
In an era where technology is rapidly reshaping our world, the Roma Education Fund (REF) is placing digital transformation at the core of its new strategy. Recognizing the critical need to build resilience within Roma communities, REF is launching top-notch education programs designed to empower both children and adults. These initiatives aim to ensure that Roma not only keep pace with the tech-driven world but also excel within it.
A key component of this strategy is the integration of cutting-edge AI and digital technologies. By incorporating AI into our educational programs, our team will be able to make the rights decisions and to equip the Roma communities with the skills necessary to navigate and thrive in the digital landscape. This forward-thinking approach ensures that participants are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities presented by the modern world.
In addition to these educational initiatives, REF is forging strategic partnerships to further its mission. One notable collaboration is with Accenture Romania, which has been implementing the Digital Skills Academy since 2020. This partnership has recently expanded to include Roma refugees from Ukraine, who have been supported by REF for nearly two years. These teens have just embarked on a new six-week training program led by the Academy’s dedicated team of volunteers.
The collaboration between the Roma Education Fund and Accenture Romania exemplifies the power of partnership in supporting vulnerable youth and promoting equal access to learning and development opportunities in the digital age. By working together, these organizations are making significant strides in bridging the digital divide and fostering a resilient, tech-savvy Roma community.
As REF continues to roll out high-quality education programs, the focus remains on empowering Roma individuals to harness every available digital tool. This commitment to digital transformation and resilience-building is not just about keeping up with technology; it’s about ensuring that Roma communities can thrive and flourish in an ever-evolving world.
We envision a world where Roma communities are celebrated as rich sources of knowledge, creativity, and potential. Our educational approaches actively engage learners through real-world and technology-enhanced experiences. We believe that innovative leadership can emerge from unexpected places, breaking down traditional hierarchies of knowledge. Learning, for us, is a dynamic and collaborative process that equips individuals and communities to navigate complexity and uncertainty. Our focus is on transforming Roma-led educational innovations into beacons of excellence, inspiring systemic change across diverse contexts.
Stanislav Daniel, the team leader the Complementary Education Centres Strategic Division within the Roma Education Fund Network.
