Billbrain Technologies Successfully Delivers ICT Skills Training for Heifer International’s ADAP Project
Billbrain Technologies Ltd. successfully implemented a Basic ICT Skills Training for Producer Organization (PO) management teams under Heifer International Uganda’s Accelerate Dairy Production and Productivity (ADAP) Project, strengthening digital capacity within Uganda’s dairy value chain. The training was delivered on behalf of Heifer International, with support from aBi Developments Ltd, as part of the three-year ADAP project (2020–2022). ADAP aims to increase dairy productivity, improve access to services and markets, and strengthen institutional and business capacity for 3,500 smallholder dairy farmers across seven districts in Central Uganda. Strengthening Digital Capacity for Dairy Producer Organizations The ICT training was designed to support quality data management and digitalization of milk records at Producer Organization level, following the distribution of desktop computers to participating organizations. Billbrain Technologies developed the training methodology, tools, work plan, and budget, conducted the training sessions, administered pre- and post-training assessments, and produced a comprehensive training report. The three-day hands-on training was conducted from 18th to 21st January 2022, with concurrent sessions in Luwero and Kiboga districts. Out of a target of 20 participants from 12 Producer Organizations, 19 trainees successfully attended the sessions, comprising 16 male and 3 female participants. Participants in the Luwero cohort were drawn from Nakaseke, Kayunga, and Nakasongola districts, while the Kiboga cohort included trainees from Kiboga and Kyankwanzi districts, representing a wide range of dairy Producer Organizations. Practical, Hands-on ICT Training The training covered six core modules, carefully structured to address day-to-day operational needs at PO level: Introduction to Computers (hardware, software, and basic maintenance) Day-to-day computer use and applications (Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) Filing systems and storage management ICT security, ethics, and data privacy Internet use and communication (internet browsing, email, and social media) The sessions emphasized practical application, enabling participants to immediately apply ICT skills to data entry, record keeping, reporting, and communication within their organizations. Measurable Impact and Positive Outcomes Training effectiveness was assessed through pre- and post-training evaluations. The average assessment score improved from 5.4/10 before training to 9.11/10 after training, demonstrating a significant increase in participants’ ICT knowledge and skills. Participant feedback further confirmed the success of the training, with high ratings recorded across key evaluation areas: Training objectives (clarity, relevance, and achievement): 4.5/5 Training materials quality and relevance: 4.5/5 Course scope, structure, and overall value: 4.75/5 Trainers’ delivery and facilitation skills: 4.9/5 Learning environment and organization: 4.6/5 While participants expressed strong appreciation for the relevance of the training to their work, many noted that the time allocated was limited given the breadth of topics covered—highlighting demand for further capacity-building initiatives. Looking Ahead Based on the outcomes, it is recommended that follow-up support sessions be conducted to monitor how the acquired ICT skills are being applied within Producer Organizations. In addition, future training in digital marketing would further equip POs to promote their organizations and dairy products using online platforms. Appreciation and Commitment Billbrain Technologies Ltd. extends sincere appreciation to Heifer International and aBi Developments Ltd for entrusting us with this important assignment, and to all participating trainees for their commitment and cooperation. We remain committed to empowering organizations with practical digital skills that drive efficiency, accountability, and sustainable growth. We are confident that the skills gained through this training will contribute positively to the performance and long-term success of the participating Producer Organizations.
