For the sixth consecutive year, the Acronis Cyber Foundation Program has proudly delivered its transformative IT Skills Program for the immigrant population of Schaffhausen, Switzerland. What began as a small initiative has grown into a thriving, community-led program that helps newcomers build the digital and interpersonal skills they need to successfully integrate into their new home.

This year’s edition of the program welcomed 25 students from a rich tapestry of backgrounds, including Afghanistan, Syria, Ethiopia, Ukraine, Turkey, Iran, Albania, and Eritrea. Over the course of two intensive weeks — totaling 80 hours of instruction — participants explored a wide range of practical subjects. From mastering basic computer use and Microsoft Office applications to learning about cyber safety and AI, students developed essential skills to support both their daily lives and long-term career goals. The course also included vital soft skills training, with topics such as financial literacy and taxes in Switzerland, CV writing, LinkedIn usage, and public speaking. The aim was not only to teach technology, but to provide students with the tools to confidently pursue educational and employment opportunities — and to feel at home in their new environment.

This incredible learning journey was made possible thanks to the unwavering commitment of our volunteer trainers. This year, Acronis employees were joined by team members from our MSP partners, Backup ONE and Unimission, as well as dedicated volunteers from Constructor Group. Their time, mentorship, and encouragement brought energy and authenticity to each session, helping to create a classroom atmosphere rooted in empathy and mutual respect.

The course concluded on July 18th with a graduation ceremony — a proud and emotional moment for all involved. Distinguished guests from the local community, including Mayor Peter Neukomm, attended the celebration to recognize the students’ hard work and to reaffirm the city’s commitment to inclusion and opportunity for all residents.

Our special gratitude goes to our NGO partners, Integres and SAH Schaffhausen, for their tireless work in community integration and social services. Their support, along with that of the wider Schaffhausen community, has been instrumental in shaping this program into a meaningful, sustainable initiative.

Over the past six years, the IT Skills Program in Schaffhausen has helped more than 150 students gain confidence, build practical knowledge, and unlock doors to brighter futures. At its heart, this program is a celebration of what’s possible when local communities come together to support newcomers — when technology, education, and compassion unite.

This is a program built by the community, for the community. And we’re proud to keep building it — together.