Louisiana organizations will receive more than 25-thousand Apple devices through an $18 million workforce development partnership announced by Governor Jeff Landry and ConnectLA.
The ÉTOUFFÉE program will distribute Mac and iPad devices to 11 organizations across the state to help make digital education, job training, and online services more accessible.
The Louisiana Community and Technical College System will receive the largest award, with approximately 13-thousand devices. The system plans to extend distance learning to residents in 10 parishes without an adult education site. Adult learners without a computer will have access to devices and direct instruction to help them attend classes, complete coursework, and apply for jobs online.
Governor Jeff Landry says the partnership is intended to help rural residents access educational and employment opportunities without having to travel long distances.
“We’re bringing high-speed internet to rural Louisiana and attracting new jobs across our state. If you’ve worked a full shift and the nearest class is a parish away, having a computer and someone to show you how to use it can mean taking that class right at your kitchen table. That’s how we build on the investments we’ve made and help more Louisianians earn a good living in the communities that raised them,” said Governor Jeff Landry.
Colleges and community organizations will pair the devices with free, hands-on digital skills training. Equipment will be available through device lending, public computer labs, and programs supporting education, workforce training, and health care.
ConnectLA selected Apple as a partner because of the accessibility features built into its devices. These include screen readers, magnification software, and voice controls to help people with disabilities navigate applications, complete forms, and access online services.
ÉTOUFFÉE award recipients include Bastion Veterans Wellness Center, Franklin Parish, Louisiana Community and Technical College System, Pointe Coupée Parish, Savoy Medical, Southeastern Louisiana University, Southern University and A&M College, Southern University at New Orleans, the Town of St. Joseph, the Town of White Castle, and West Ascension Parish Hospital.
ConnectLA is administering the program with funding from the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Capital Projects Fund, in partnership with Apple, SHI, and the Louisiana Office of Technology Services.
