Bridging the generation gap

Published:

BT HAS launched a nationwide hunt to find and reward young Internet Rangers – youngsters who are teaching older generations about the benefits of going online.

The BT Internet Ranger of the Year Awards celebrate stories of outstanding young people. Previous winners include Scott Campbell from Dunecht, who in 2006 and aged just 12, launched his own business, a specialist on-line bookshop.

Scott received his award for teaching his parents and grandparents how to use the internet, which boosted his confidence and helped him realise how important online skills are in today’s society.

Like many other young people of his generation, Scott grew up around computers and has a great knowledge of IT.

As a former winner, Scott wants to encourage other young people to enter the competition.

He said: “I think it is important to help friends and family learn to use the internet as it has many features that many people do not know about, so be sure to enter the BT Internet Ranger of the Year competition.”

Last year’s awards received hundreds of entries, which demonstrated the good work being carried out by young people all around the country.

Mike Hughes, head of BT’s digital inclusion campaign, said: “Young people receive a lot of criticism, but this campaign gives credit where credit is due, highlighting the good work being done by BT Internet Rangers around the country.”

Entry to the awards is via the BT Internet Rangers website www.btinternetrangers. co.uk, and can take the form of a short written submission or a video entry. Young people aged 16 or under can enter themselves or can be nominated by an adult. The deadline for entries is August 18, 2008.