Workshop Hi Digital: Bucharest seniors introduced to smartphone use

On Thursday, a group of seniors from Bucharest took part in an interactive digital literacy workshop organised as part of the Hi Digital programme, developed by the Vodafone Foundation. Participants listened to trainers' explanations and practised, step by step, how to use smartphones, communication apps, and other digital tools useful in everyday life.

Throughout the workshop, seniors were actively involved in all proposed activities. Trainers explained, in accessible terms, the basic functions of a mobile phone, useful apps for daily activities, how online payments and shopping work, and the key rules for staying safe in the digital environment. Participants had the opportunity to practise what they had learnt independently and to ask questions, in order to build new digital skills.

The Hi Digital programme is aimed at people aged 65 and over, and seeks to boost their confidence and independence when using technology. For many participants, technology thus becomes a means of keeping in touch more easily with family and friends, accessing information and services, or managing various everyday tasks on their own.

Results reported by the programme

• 94% of Hi Digital participants say that, after completing the courses, they use their smartphone with greater confidence;
• 86% say they now communicate more frequently with those close to them;
• 50% of participants now use safety settings to protect their phone.

To date, nearly 11,000 people aged 65 and over have developed their digital skills through this programme. Alongside this, 247 instructors — including librarians, social workers, and professionals from non-governmental organisations — have been trained to deliver the workshops.

The programme is active in 76 localities across Romania, running through community centres and public libraries. In 2026, the network includes 25 partner libraries, 15 of which joined the programme this year, following an investment of one million RON. Seniors also have access to an online Hi Digital Guide, featuring 14 digital literacy modules, which they can use to continue practising after attending the workshops.

According to cited data, only 28% of Romanians have basic digital skills, compared to the European average of 54%. Among people aged between 65 and 74, the figure stands at 6.17%, compared to 29% across the European Union.