The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) says it will train no fewer than 15,000 women in digital literacy, online safety, and digital hygiene.
This, according to the organization is with a view to bridging the growing digital divide between Northern Nigeria and other regions.
CITAD Executive Director, Yunusa Zakari-Ya’u, disclosed this on Wednesday at the launch of digital literacy training held in Kano.
Represented by Senior Programme Officer, Isa Garba, Zakari-Ya’u said the initiative was urgent because “the North is lagging in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), a sector critical to development”.
He noted that the programme aims to narrow the digital gap in an era increasingly driven by ICT.
“Businesses dealing with ICT on one street in Lagos outnumber all ICT businesses in Kano combined.
“While Lagos has reached its destination, we are just beginning our ICT journey. That’s why we’re training 15,000 women in digital literacy,” he said.
Zakari-Ya’u added that equipping women with digital skills would boost socio-economic wellbeing and create ripple effects across all areas of life.
Project Manager Fatima Babakura said about 5,000 women and girls aged 16 to 40 would be trained in digital entrepreneurship to help them tap into online business and income opportunities.
He said the programme would also teach participants how to guard against online harassment and cyber attacks.
“Beneficiaries are expected to cascade the knowledge to their communities.
“We’re also training students on Computer-Based Tests (CBT) because many fail exams due to poor digital skills,” Babakura said.
On his part, Isyaku Garba, Director of ICT at the Kano State Secondary Schools Board, said the board has designed programmes to give students ICT knowledge to enable them compete globally.
He noted that Lagos achieved over 60% ICT infrastructure utilization as early as 2006, with many women already skilled in ICT.
“Women with digital skills can work remotely from home, easing financial burdens on their spouses,” he added. (NAN)
