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Newswise — The  is observed annually on 19 March to demonstrate how, among other objectives, digital learning can build relationships and empower communities. In an effort to reinforce collaboration and promote societal development, the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Mamelodi campus has embraced e-community engagement projects in collaboration with various international institutions.

This kind of engagement represents a shift in connecting with communities, and is defined as the process of interacting with a community through digital platforms, offering an alternative to traditional face-to-face engagement. This is vital in addressing societal challenges, and enables us to build more inclusive and resilient communities. 

Knowledge and resources are exchanged via online channels, thereby fostering societal development and sustainability in ways that transcend geographical boundaries. As remote work and virtual communication become part of our daily lives, implementing effective e-community engagement strategies have become essential for the growth of community projects.

Aiming for impact

The campus initiatives have significantly expanded the outreach and impact of community engagement projects, facilitating the sharing of diverse perspectives and best practices. Projects include a cultural exchange with five countries, a career guidance initiative, one on coding and robotics, a Sustainable Development Goals project and storytelling project, and a financial literacy project. Mamelodi campus aims to organise diverse e-community projects and give community members, from high school learners to pensioners, the opportunity to interact with students and lecturers from other countries. E-community engagement allows participants to engage in real-time discussions. Some projects foster lasting relationships that can evolve beyond the confines of individual programmes. Such collaborations enrich the community engagement landscape and promote a culture of collective problem-solving.

Evaluations of these programmes highlight various trends. They grant high school learners and community members access to student- and lecturer-led initiatives, and have increased student and lecturer involvement in community projects. They have also enhanced learning experiences, thereby fostering the development of critical skills among participants. Moreover, the digital environment allows learners to connect with a global network of experts, facilitating the exchange of insights on contemporary issues and effective problem-solving methodologies.

This interconnectedness broadens the access of learners and community members to resources that may otherwise be limited. Integrating digital learning into e-community engagement initiatives further enriches the experience, allowing participants to engage with interactive content and develop technological skills that are essential for the world of work. In an e-community engagement setting, learners and community members can participate in online discussions, share insights and learn from diverse perspectives. This promotes personal growth and a collective intelligence that can drive innovation and facilitate community development.

Optimising e-engagement

While this sort of digital engagement has great potential, there are challenges. Differing time zones, varying levels of internet bandwidth, and constraints posed by busy schedules and load-shedding can complicate participation. These factors can hinder meaningful engagement and limit the contributions of certain community members.

Mamelodi campus has adopted innovative strategies to manage these challenges. It has identified a need for orientation sessions with international partners before online participation in order to better understand the dynamics of the group they will be working with. It’s also important to understand the environment and educational level of the group so as to adapt their presentation accordingly. Additionally, training for learners and community members before online sessions is essential to enhance their digital literacy skills and ensure that they participate in e-engagement activities. Effective communication and collaboration across cultures and time zones are also crucial for a successful e-community project.

Investing in digital infrastructure is equally important to ensure that all participants can access online resources effectively. Using asynchronous communication tools, such as discussion forums and recorded sessions, can help bridge the gap with regard to varying schedules and time zone differences. By encouraging open lines of communication and providing spaces for sharing experiences, project teams can create an inclusive environment that values each member’s contributions.

The bigger picture

The power of digital tools that foster connections and shared experiences can create a supportive ecosystem that empowers participants to work collectively toward impactful community solutions. Embracing this collaborative spirit is key to addressing the pressing challenges of our time and striving for a better tomorrow. Through strategic investment in resources and training, we can ensure that e-community engagement evolves into a cornerstone of sustainable development and social cohesion in a rapidly changing world.