Kompetenz.digital - Frauen stärken, Zukunft sichern

The project “Kompetenz.Digital: Empowering Women, Securing the Future” is a pioneering initiative of the FrauenComputerZentrumBerlin e.V. (FCZB) in cooperation with DIGITAL-ZEBRA and organized civil society. It aims to sustainably improve the digital participation and labor market integration of women with refugee backgrounds in Berlin.

The project is based on the recognition that basic digital skills are becoming increasingly important for social and professional participation, yet many women with refugee backgrounds lack sufficient knowledge in this area. At the same time, they often lack the necessary skills to effectively use digital tools for job searches and application processes. To close these gaps, the project creates a decentralized, community-based educational program specifically tailored to the needs of the target group.

The project relies on collaboration with public libraries, which are already established as the first points of contact for digital assistance and are used by 65% women. By combining the FCZB’s many years of experience in the field of basic digital literacy with the comprehensive network of DIGITAL-ZEBRAS, a low-barrier and practical program is created.

Participants not only acquire digital skills relevant to the job market, but also learn how to use public libraries as places of education and engagement—including for their families. A special focus is placed on the sustainability of the programs: DIGITAL-ZEBRAS digital guides remain available to the women for individual support even after the courses have ended, to provide long-term support for skills acquisition and job placement.

“Kompetenz.Digital” makes an important contribution to the implementation of the GD:B strategy, particularly in the action area “Inclusive Urban Design,” and implements the government’s policy guidelines on gender equality. By specifically promoting digital skills and enhancing the labor market opportunities of women with refugee backgrounds, the project helps to reduce the digital divide in Berlin and sustainably improve this target group’s opportunities for participation. At the same time, it strengthens public libraries as central hubs for digital education and integration.