The camper van, a useful vehicle for traveling. But in Gembloux, it has today become an effective solution to combat the digital divide. Since September, a converted vehicle renamed “Espace Digital Nomade” has been traveling through the villages of the commune, to offer digital assistance to Gembloutois in difficulty.
“The idea of the campervan is really to get as close as possible to citizens. Until now, we had a fixed digital space in Gembloux, but we realized that some people simply could not travel to the center of the town” explains Marine Kröner, head of this nomadic digital space. “So why not go and meet these people?”
A collective emulation
Once through the camper van doors, citizens can obtain multiple services, ranging from the installation of an application to a computer update, including the printing of documents. The help is individual, but the atmosphere collaborative.
“As we operate without an appointment, several people can arrive at the same time. As a result, people meet in groups and the question of one person becomes the question of the whole group. It really creates a collective emulation, to which we didn’t necessarily expect.”
The CEDEG, the unit for employment and economic development in Gembloux, is behind the digital nomadic space initiative. To put the campervan on the roads, the organization benefits from a European fund. The City of Gembloux is also a partner and convinced of the importance of the service.
“Digital is a positive thing, but we must not leave anyone in the way” recalls Gauthier De Sauvage, digital alderman in the city of Cutlers. “This initiative responds to a need, and as alderman for the digital transition, I am really very sensitive to it.”
An inter-generational tool
Since the campervan has been on the road, the feedback has been excellent. Digital help is valuable and is aimed at all generations. On the ground, Marine Kröner observes that “the digital divide affects everyone. For example, many young people, although accustomed to their phones, have difficulty writing an email or writing a CV when they leave school.”
“It is therefore fundamental for us to be able to help and train people from the age of 7 to the age of 90 and over.”
If you come across the campervan in the coming weeks, don’t hesitate to come and knock on their door. The CEDEG managers will be happy to open up to you and support you in your digital efforts.
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