At Makaia, true to our mission, we believe that technology should be a tool for inclusion and equity. This includes, in particular, the adults over 50 who today face the challenge of integrating into a highly digitized economy.
Although we often talk about young people as the protagonists of the technological future, at Makaia we are convinced that the knowledge, experience, and perspective of older adults are valuable assets that can significantly enrich today's work ecosystems. That is why we are committed to creating initiatives that bring this population closer to real opportunities for learning, employability, and participation in the digital world.
The “Silver Economy It is not just a trend, it is a reality that is transforming markets, business models, and public policies around the world. For example, in Colombia, more than 7.6 million people are over 60 years old, representing about 12.31% of annual GDP, and they consume an average of 1.332 trillion pesos per day, demonstrating their economic and social relevance.
Despite that Many adults face multiple barriers to fully integrating into the digital society. According to DANE, in 2021 only 36.41% of people over 65 in Colombia had access to the internet, and only 18.11% actively used it. The main barriers include a lack of digital skills, low educational attainment, the cost of devices and data plans, fear of technology, and some physical difficulties in using technology.
Aware of these challenges, at Makaia we have implemented in recent years programs to promote digital literacy among older adults, impacting more than 100 people who acquired essential skills in the use of electronic devices, document preparation, effective internet searches, and online security. One of these programs was developed in partnership with Scotiabank Colpatria, with whom we created a training process adapted to the needs and learning rhythms of older adults in the city of Bogotá. This initiative not only provided basic technical tools, but also promoted spaces for socialization, trust, and digital empowerment, seeking to reduce the generation gap and strengthen their active participation in society.
Furthermore, once the great potential of this segment of the population became evident, we recently launched a scholarship program in Data Analysis with Artificial Intelligence tools, specifically aimed at people over 50. This initiative was made possible thanks to the coordinated work with the Arturo Sesana Foundation, Sura, and Protección, and represents a commitment to training in one of the most in-demand digital skills in today's job market.
Through this program, participants not only acquire technical knowledge in data analysis and the use of advanced digital tools, but also strengthen their self-confidence, expand their networks, and reconnect with opportunities in the workplace and professional life. The program includes mentoring, psychosocial support, and practical activities to facilitate a path to employment, entrepreneurship, or participation in technology projects.
Adults over 50 have something that technology still cannot replicate: their wisdom and experience. IIncorporating them into digital transformation processes is not only a matter of social inclusion, it is also a strategic decision. According to a report by the Observatory on Employability and Entrepreneurship of Older Adults, 67.91% of Colombian business owners value the contribution of older people to their teams, and 58.91% believe that their presence improves productivity and strengthens internal processes.
The digital inclusion for older adults It is essential to build a more equitable society and maximize its potential, and at Makaia we will continue working to generate diverse, intergenerational, and sustainable opportunities for access to technology.
