Dinh Ngoc Son (right) runs free AI classes for elderly people at his home in Hanoi
On an early afternoon in Residential Area 9, Dich Vong Hau Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, a group of older men and women, each holding a smartphone, entered a small house tucked away in an alley.
They had come to attend an artificial intelligence (AI) class at the private residence of Dinh Ngoc Son, former Deputy Head of the Faculty of Broadcasting and Television at the Academy of Journalism and Communication.
Son has dedicated a small room in his house to running free AI classes in the mornings and evenings. Each session accommodates nearly 20 students.
The eldest student in the class is 80 years old, while the youngest is over 65. They come from diverse professional backgrounds but now share the common status of retirees. Some were professors and master's degree holders, while others had never used a smartphone. Yet, they all desire to understand technology and keep up with the digital age.
"The only requirement here is to stay positive, think positively, act positively," Son said with a smile.
Ensuring the elderly are not left behind in the digital era
Explaining his motivation for launching these AI classes, Son shared, "I used to teach media and have experience in digital transformation and artificial intelligence. I see that our government is actively promoting digital transformation and AI literacy. I don't want the elderly to be left behind in this technological revolution, so I organised these classes to help them access AI and technology."
He personally designs the curriculum, teaches, and provides technical support to each student. As word spread, more and more elderly learners signed up.
Although Son has over 150 apps on his phone, he selects only the most essential ones for his students, which cater to their daily needs.
"I don't teach complex theories; I only focus on what the elderly truly need. For instance, using electronic identification, booking bus tickets, or looking up administrative procedures, things that are both practical and relevant to their age," he explained.
"Older people may be slower with technology, but they have time and a genuine willingness to learn. If inspired correctly, they will not be left behind in the digital era," he added.
Changing mindsets
For teacher Son, the most crucial aspect of his classes is shifting the mindset of the elderly.
"Many older people are discouraged by their families, told they're too old to learn, or scared into believing they'll easily fall victim to online scams. This makes them hesitant and lose motivation. That's why the first step is awareness training. They need to realise that they can still learn and that AI is now a tool to support them."
"Technology isn't as complicated as it seems. Once they learn how to download, install, and use an app, they can do it independently and even teach others. I can only train 15, 20, or maybe 60 people. But if they share what they've learned with three or four more, then hundreds will benefit. That's how true knowledge dissemination happens," he expressed passionately.
Practical impact beyond technology
The benefits of these small classes extend far beyond just technological knowledge. Many elderly students have gained confidence in using smartphones to search for information, stay connected with loved ones, and even create digital content.
"After every lesson, we take photos of the class and use AI to turn them into poetry, add music, and create short video clips as souvenirs. On International Women's Day (March 8), the class even composed a song celebrating the women in our community, all thanks to AI. The students are not just learning; they are creating," Son shared.
After just three sessions, many participants could already use TikTok, navigate maps, book transport, compose poetry, and even generate music with AI.
Professor Dr Duong Xuan Ngoc, 75, former Deputy Director of the Academy of Journalism and Communication, is one of the class's enthusiastic students.
Professor Dr Duong Xuan Ngoc is one of the class's enthusiastic students.
"I'm no stranger to technology, but AI is different. It's new and incredibly fascinating. This class helps me stay updated, particularly in applying AI for research and digital payments," Professor Ngoc said.
The class fosters intergenerational connection for him: "Before, I hesitated to ask my grandchildren for help. Now, after learning AI, I can share insights with them instead. Most importantly, I can use technology independently in my daily life."
The enthusiasm for learning has spread from a single small neighbourhood. Several local party branches, women's unions, and nearby wards have sought guidance on setting up similar classes. The Women's Union of Dich Vong Hau Ward has even invited teacher Son to conduct a special training session for its members.
