Singapore, 16 December 2012 – Today, StarHub launched Golden Gurus, an IT empowerment and education programme by seniors for seniors, to help the elderly bridge the digital gap with their loved ones and the community.
In line with the Government's promotion of Active Aging, StarHub's Golden Gurus programme, supported by Council for Third Age (C3A) and RSVP ProGuide—a social enterprise company formed by non-profit organisation for senior volunteers RSVP—will see tech-savvy senior citizens giving back to society by teaching information technology to other seniors.
"StarHub is a firm believer in the use of technology to empower individuals as well as forge stronger relationships within families and between friends," said Mr Neil Montefiore, Chief Executive Officer, StarHub. "Golden Gurus will enable tech-savvy senior citizens to stay active and catalyze other senior citizens in staying connected to society and their loved ones."
StarHub is now looking for digitally fluent seniors to apply via the Golden Gurus microsite at www.starhub.com/goldengurus. People who know of tech-savvy seniors can also submit nominations there on their behalf.
Judges from StarHub and C3A will then select five Golden Gurus to be unveiled at the C3A-organised 50 plus Expo from 22 to 24 March 2013.
After exclusive training from RSVP ProGuide and StarHub, the Golden Gurus will thereafter be co-trainers with RSVP ProGuide, imparting their technological abilities at community workshops conducted by RSVP ProGuide. Showcasing and leveraging on lifestyle topics that will appeal to senior citizens, the workshops are set to be far more engaging than one’s typical computer class. The Golden Gurus will also share their knowledge via social media, blogs and more.
"Golden Gurus will have the opportunity to interact with industry professionals, upgrade their skills and share their knowledge with their peers," shared Mr Montefiore. "Besides that, they will also enjoy exclusive Golden Guru perks from StarHub, including a free mobile device worth up to $1,000 and exclusive invitations to StarHub events."
StarHub's Golden Gurus initiative is supported by: Council for Third Age, who will help promote the programme through the C3A portal (www.c3a.org.sg) and participate in the selection process; and RSVP ProGuide, who will help train the Golden Gurus and run the community workshops for senior citizens who may be interested in learning IT skills.
“In support of Active Ageing, we are excited to support StarHub in their search for active seniors with the skills needed in this day and age to stay connected to their loved ones and the community," enthused Ms Soh Swee Ping, Chief Executive Officer, Council for Third Age. "We are happy to be part of the team in the selection process and look forward to empowering seniors to Age Actively with the StarHub Golden Gurus."
"Given our increasingly longer lifespans, it is even more important for everyone to stay active and connected as they age," stated Mr Koh Juay Meng, President, RSVP. "We are proud to be a part of StarHub's bold and inclusive effort to proactively involve senior citizens in connecting with modern technology."
