Microsoft Malta Limited and Fra Diego Home launched a Microsoft Electronic Library (MEL) established within the Home. The library is an equipped computer centre that will help bring access to technology to Malta’s underprivileged. This educational facility, set up by Microsoft Malta, is paving the way for the children residing at and visiting the Home, to access the world of information technology. The project is part of a global Microsoft programme run with non-governmental organisations.
“This is a great project for the community of children that we take care of,” said Sr Josephine Xuereb, Mother Superior, running the Fra Diego Home for Children and the Elderly. “Having access to technology and using it to educate our children and youth means that they will no longer be excluded from the information society running outside the doors of this Home. Today, technology is making it possible for people of all physical capabilities and ages to be productive in every field imaginable” she added.
Pierre Mallia, Business Development Manager for Microsoft Malta said: “We are delighted to contribute towards this worthy project which is making it possible for the children living at the Fra Diego Home to have access to Information Technology, the Internet and to gain Computer Literacy. In today’s world, access to technology is an essential pillar for people to contribute positively to their economies and societies. Through Unlimited Potential, Microsoft is committed to provide this access and knowledge to all communities. The Fra Diego Home works towards a great cause and one which Microsoft is pleased to be able to support.”
The Microsoft Electronic Library which is a result of the partnership between Microsoft and Fra Diego Home is also part of Unlimited Potential, a global funding program from Microsoft, aiming at improving lifelong learning for disadvantaged young people and adults by providing technology skills through technology learning centres. The Unlimited Potential program also helps to decrease the technology skills gap worldwide, and bridge the digital divide among nations and communities.
Fra Diego Home electronic library includes computers and peripherals, Internet access and a selection of operating as well as educational software provided by Microsoft, Vodafone Foundation, Advanced Tele-
communications Services Ltd, Microtechnology Malta ltd, Melita Cable, AVMT and Scan Computers Ltd.
Fra Diego Home has provided the premises for the library and will manage and supervise all operations. The Home is a residential Home and a Day Care Centre service. Both services are aimed at children with social problems and the elderly.
The children’s ages range between three and 16 and usually come from problem families. The Home offers a holistic service. Apart from providing for basic needs and education, the Home also offers group therapy, play therapy, counseling sessions and social work service with the children and their families.