UNIFIL’s Indian peacekeepers launched last week a computer literacy campaign for women within their area of responsibility in south-eastern Lebanon, aiming to expand economic opportunities for the local community.

The month-long course, which began on 17 September, is currently benefiting 25 women from the villages of Kfar Shouba, Kfar Hammam, and El Hebbariye. It offers a blend of basic computer skills and training in widely used applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint – tools that are expected to boost participants’ competitiveness in the job market. 

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Indian contingent commander Colonel N. Gladson said the course is about empowering local women. 

“By equipping them with computer skills, we are helping them to step forward with confidence, to seize opportunities, and to contribute more meaningfully in their families and the society,” said Col. Gladson. “Such initiatives empower women to believe in their own potential and pave the way for greater inclusivity and resilience within the community.”

One of the participants, Ms. Mouna Shebli, expressed optimism about the impact of the training. 

“It gives me hope that I can do more for my family and even support my children in their studies,” she said. 

Working in coordination with local authorities and a local charity called ACA (Awareness and Consolation Association), UNIFIL’s Indian peacekeepers plan to expand the scope and geographical reach of the initiative.