Nizhny Novgorod's retirees embrace digital skills in Silver Hacker courses

A fresh group of retirees has started the Silver Hacker digital literacy course in Nizhny Novgorod. The first session took place at the neighbourhood centre on Kirovskaya Street, 5. Participants learned about the MAX messenger app and other essential digital skills. The Silver Hacker project now runs in 65 locations across the city. Each class keeps numbers small, with just ten attendees, to ensure personalised support. Over 100 retirees have joined the programme in the last three months alone.

The courses teach seniors how to use smartphones with confidence. Topics include messaging apps, social media, online bill payments, and spotting fraud attempts. Marina Chernysheva, one of the participants, believes the training is vital for staying connected in today's world. Evgenia Kavilashvili, another attendee, agrees, stressing the importance of keeping up with technology. The initiative is part of the wider University for Seniors project, led by Oksana Dektereva. As director of the Nizhny Novgorod Public Self-Governance NGO, she oversees both online and in-person activities for retirees across all local neighbourhood centres and community councils.

The latest intake marks another step in expanding digital skills among older residents. With small class sizes and practical lessons, the programme aims to build confidence in everyday technology. More sessions are expected to follow in the coming months.