Computerworld

Smith Family launches new online mentoring program

To facilitate program which allows disadvantaged kids to be mentored by IBM and AMP professionals.

The Smith Family today launched new online mentoring software designed to give students in low socio-economic areas career guidance.

The software, named Ignite, is also designed to boost computer literacy for the participants, and complement the Rudd Government's Digital Education Revolution.

Students will be assigned mentors from a pool of high-ranking volunteers from organisations such as IBM and AMP.

The development of the program was funded by AMP and Australian Vintage Limited.

The Smith Family already provides online mentoring through the iTrack program, but Ignite is a significant software upgrade, including monitored real-time chat functionality.

iTrack currently operates in seven communities throughout Sydney and in some other parts of Australia. Over 140 mentors participate in the program.