London one of five cities included in Ontario pilot program to increase digital literacy in youth

Ontario is stepping up to help young people prepare for the future.

The provincial government announced Monday its support for a new program that will help those between the ages of 12 and 15 learn to code and improve their digital skills.

The Digital Literacy + Coding Pilot will give up to 1,000 youth valuable new skills in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, equipping them with the skills employers are looking for, officials said.

Five communities across the province will take part in the pilot, including London, Belleville, Hamilton, Sudbury and Toronto. The program is being delivered in partnership with the Brookfield Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

In London, the program will be delivered by the Boys and Girls Club.

Officials say the program was designed by experts in digital literacy, youth engagement, community development and education policy.

Its aim is to prepare young people with the skills they need for jobs in an increasingly digital economy.