University of Limerick Foundation secures national grant through the Hi Digital Fund to expand the Student Volunteer Hi Digital Programme.
A University of Limerick (UL) project helping over 100 older adults build essential digital skills has secured funding through the Hi Digital Fund, a €540,000 national initiative created by Rethink Ireland and supported by the Vodafone Foundation, private donors and the Department of Rural and Community Development via the Dormant Accounts Fund.
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The UL project is one of just five organisations nationwide selected to receive support through the fund, which is designed to tackle digital exclusion and promote greater digital inclusion for people aged 65 and over.
With funding awarded to the University of Limerick Foundation, Deonach Digiteach (meaning Digital Volunteer in Irish) has engaged 145 volunteers and supported 102 older adults in developing digital confidence and skills to date.
Delivered through the University of Limerick Student Volunteer Programme, the intergenerational learning programme brings together UL students, Transition Year students and older adults to provide practical, person-centred support while fostering meaningful community connections.
Participants in the Deonach Digiteach programme described the impact their newly acquired skills have had on their lives.
Angela Dempsey, a retired nurse and midwife from Co. Limerick, said:
“At first, I felt a bit overwhelmed by the digital world, but I am so happy and proud now that I can do my online banking, send emails and even book a holiday online. Thanks to the Transition Year and University of Limerick students, I have gained so much confidence and feel much more comfortable using digital technology.”
John Cushnahan, a retired politician and former MEP from Limerick, added:
“This is a fantastic initiative. My wife and I enjoy attending AccessCampus where we receive friendly, practical support with our digital devices. We always leave feeling more confident and having learned something new. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn, connect with others and stay engaged with the digital world.”
Volunteers from the University of Limerick and local secondary schools receive training and support through the programme’s partnership with ALONE before providing one-to-one assistance, workshops and digital support cafés for participants.
Sarah Hartnett, Director of Development at University of Limerick Foundation, said:
“The support from the Hi Digital Fund will enable the University to strengthen and expand a programme that not only develops digital skills but also tackles social isolation and helps forge relationships across generations.”
Speaking on the importance of digital inclusion initiatives, Liz Roche, Head of Foundation at Vodafone Ireland, said:
“Digital inclusion is about much more than technology. It’s about helping people stay connected to friends and family, access essential public services and feel confident navigating new technologies in everyday life. The Deonach Digiteach programme shows the power of collaboration between communities, volunteers and local partners, and we’re proud to support its continued growth through the Hi Digital Fund.”
By combining digital skills training with intergenerational learning, Deonach Digiteach is helping older adults participate more confidently in an increasingly digital society while strengthening communities and creating meaningful connections between generations.
