Making Technology Accessible to More Students

Guest Post: Bipin Maharjan

As a BSc. CSIT graduate, I believe that digital literacy is one of the most powerful tools  for youth empowerment. Over the past two months, I have had the opportunity to serve as  a computer tutor for the SEE 2081 batch at the ALRC building, under a special training  initiative supported by the Rukmini Foundation and Shikharapur Community Learning  Center (CLC). The training is being provided free of cost, making it accessible to all  participating students.  

Getting Started: Computer Fundamentals & Typing Practice  

Before diving into the two main packages, we began the training with a foundation phase  that included:  

Introduction to Computers:  

 Basic understanding of hardware and software 

 Operating systems and file management  

 Uses of computers in different fields (education, business, daily life)  

Typing Practice:  

 Touch typing techniques for efficiency and accuracy  

 Typing in both English and Nepali languages  

 Use of typing software and drills to improve speed and confidence  

This phase helped students build comfort with using computers and prepared them for  further learning.  

Course Structure: Two Learning Packages  

To ensure a balanced and well-rounded learning experience, the training program was  divided into two structured packages:  

Basic Computer Package – Designed to teach essential office and productivity tools.  

Programming Package – Focused on introducing students to web development and  logical thinking through coding. 

Each package was supported by practical sessions, mini-projects, and real-life examples to  make learning more engaging and effective. 

Package 1: Basic Computer Package  

Focused on essential computer applications for academic and practical use:  

 MS Word: Creating documents, formatting text, using tables, inserting images, and  page layout.  

 Microsoft Excel: Data entry, stock management, use of formulas, and basic data  analysis.  

 PowerPoint: Designing engaging slides with transitions, animations, SmartArt,  and visual storytelling.  

Package 2: Programming Package  

Introduced the fundamentals of web development and programming logic:  

 HTML & CSS: Webpage structure, styling, layout design, and responsiveness.   JavaScript: Interactive features through DOM manipulation, events, and logic  implementation.  

 Frontend Projects: Students built small web projects combining HTML, CSS, and  JS.  

Modern Tools & Digital Skills  

To prepare students for real-world digital workflows, we introduced:  

 Git (Version Control Basics): Local Git usage to understand file tracking and  versioning (GitHub hosting not done). 

 Trello: Used for managing tasks and project phases visually. 

 Slack: Simulated digital team communication with real-time messaging and  collaboration. 

AI Tools:  

 ChatGPT – for assistance in writing and coding  

 Grammarly – for language enhancement  

 Canva – for design work (posters, presentations)  

Leadership & Communication Development  

We conducted special sessions to build confidence and teamwork, including:   Public speaking  

 Team-building activities  

 Group discussions and presentations 

These sessions supported students in becoming more confident communicators and team  contributors.  

Weekly Exams  

To track student progress and reinforce learning, we conducted weekly exams every Friday.  These helped assess individual understanding and kept students motivated to stay engaged.  

Community Engagement  

As part of community involvement and responsibility-building, students took part in a  cleaning campaign in the Bhundol area on 6th June, 2025 , contributing to environmental  awareness and cleanliness.  

Refreshment Activity: Hiking  

On Thursday, 19th June, 2025 , we organized a refreshing hiking trip to Hattiban. The  experience allowed students to enjoy nature, recharge mentally, and build stronger social  bonds with peers. 

Final Reflection  

These two months have been incredibly rewarding. I’ve witnessed tremendous growth in  students, from mastering basic computer operations to building web projects, and from shy  beginners to confident communicators. Their curiosity, discipline, and hard work are truly  inspiring.  

At last, I would sincerely like to thank the organizing team for choosing me as the tutor for  this impactful training. It has been an honor to guide these young learners, and I’m deeply  grateful for the trust placed in me.