ŠAVŠ/TAČR Digital Czechia in a Digital Europe

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RECOMMENDATIONS: With regard to the need to develop digital skills in the general public (not only “schoolchildren”) and with regard to the need to systematically address the shortage of ICT experts, based on the findings so far, consideration of the use of the following methods, certified in other EU states, strategic measures can be recommended to the Czech government and its institutions: • As in the United Kingdom, Estonia and the Netherlands, start actively and systematically using a network of existing libraries (and other local/community centers) in the field of education for the general public and in particular the digital exclusion of vulnerable groups. As part of this measure, equip libraries and other suitable local/community centers with appropriate modern ICT technologies and other necessary “educational” facilities. • Train a large group of voluntary digital trainers for different groups of the adult population. To this end, a large foundation can be set up in the manner of the British Digital Championships Network, the Estonian Look@World Foundation, supported by the government and private companies. • Another platform for developing the necessary skills for adults is offered by the Irish Springboard+, supported by ESF funds. In addition to general educational goals, it actively supports employment policy in ICT professions and fields. In the context of the Czech Republic, it would be appropriate to use the strategy of a “foundation” and a project supported by the ESF. • Stimulate and encourage large multinational ICT companies operating on the Czech market to actively support the development of digital literacy and skills of citizens. Digital Eagles (Barclays Bank) projects, which combine the fulfilment of the company’s internal educational needs with the education of the public – current and potential clients, seem to be a suitable way. One of the pragmatic arguments for establishing similar initiatives could be the fact that ICT companies in this way deepen their activities in the field of social responsibility and promote/present themselves as public benefit organizations. In addition, they can recruit new “reinforcements” and talents to their employees. • Support the active involvement of employers in vocational and especially higher education. It is mainly employers who have an overview of the knowledge and skills needed in the future. Through collaboration in the introduction of new fields of study and subjects, offers of relevant internships, research projects, etc., employers can significantly help in solving problems associated with the lack of ICT experts.