In a small room within the Holy Trinity Church in Ōtāhuhu, a group of Niuean elders has started a new journey to grow their digital skills. A weekly computer course supported by Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu, is helping these seniors, most of whom had never touched a computer before, to navigate the digital world.
Hei Sisepi, one of the participants, expressed her initial curiosity about computers. “I never used the computer before, but I love learning how to do it now,” she says. Like many of her peers, Hei wanted to gain independence in using computers for various tasks and not have to rely on her grandchildren for assistance.
Mili Patumaka shared her motivation for joining the computer classes. She had some experience with computers but had forgotten how to use them over the years. “I wanted to learn how to pay bills online,” Mili said. “It would make life easier, and we wouldn’t have to stand in long queues as the banks close.”
Kesi Tagito, who had experience using computers during her working years, had given up on trying to learn technology after an unsuccessful attempt. She humorously recounted her struggle with another computer course, saying, “I gave up because there were too many of us and only one tutor. I didn’t want to be annoying, but I tried hard.” Kesi’s experience highlights the challenges many older individuals face when trying to adapt to new technologies.
Oka Taihia had used computers for work-related tasks, but after retiring, she found it challenging to stay updated. She also pointed out the difficulty in dealing with government agencies and services that had shifted online. “I’m relying on my daughter,” Oka admitted, “to do all those things for me.”
Reverend Igasiatama Mokole from the Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Ōtāhuhu, Auckland, visited the South Auckland Creative and Tech Hub (SACTH) at The Cause Collective for ideas during the planning stages of the computer course.
Although SACTH is aimed at South Auckland youth aged 9 – 24, Reverend Iga wanted to create a similar hub for the Niue elders.
“Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu was that vehicle that supported this computer course behind the scene,” says Reverend Iga. “They encouraged us to open our doors and Akesa and Hainoame connected us to Danny Leaosavai’i from SACTH and TCC’s computer expert Loncey Craig. They helped us get the right computers and equipment.”
Reverend Iga says it’s important to bridge the technology gap created by the Covid-19 pandemic as many elders felt isolated.
The computer course helps the elderly to stay connected and engaged along with other activities supported by the Champions of Change initiative.
The church’s efforts have made a profound impact on the lives of these Niuean elders, providing them with valuable skills and a renewed sense of community and wellbeing. Something which aligns to the Niue cultural framework, Koe Fakatupuolamoui he tau Magafaoa Niue.