All Aboard the Digibus: Connecting Rural Communities

October 27th, 2021

DigiBus is a new and innovative project from local Cheltenham charity IT Schools Africa to support and connect digitally excluded communities in Gloucestershire. The DigiBus project will cross the county in a converted double-decker bus, stopping in towns and villages for a few days at a time providing a free digital skills training service. IT Schools Africa is a sister charity to The Isbourne.

What is a Digibus?

The bus was generously donated by Stagecoach South West after retiring from public service with plenty of life in her. The bottom and top decks have been converted into comfortable learning spaces with a variety of different equipment, all powered by solar power. It’s hoped that the onboard tech equipment; computers, laptops, tablets, a 3-D printer, robots and a virtual reality system will educate and inspire visitors.

How does it work?

The DigiBus has trainers and volunteers who are providing hour-long personalised one-to-one sessions for visitors who need extra help with their online and tech skills. You will be able to learn:

how to order medication or groceries online
chat to friends and family
stay safe using the internet

As well as find out about important services or social networks that can provide further support.

DigiBus also offers space and equipment to community-based organisations to deliver workshops focusing on practical digital skills that will benefit people’s lives, which are free of charge.

The bus is a fantastic resource for those who are not computer literate, those who cannot afford their own at-home computer or those who do not yet have access to the internet. Today, only 4% of the UK don't have access to the internet. But that is still over 2.7 million people. Therefore, projects like this are crucial for helping those who need them.