The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has started a new project to tackle the gender digital divide in Northern Nigeria. The initiative is called Addressing the Gender Digital Divide and Expanding Business Opportunities for Women in Northern Nigeria, or Agenda-WINNIG. It aims to improve the economic prospects of women and girls by teaching them modern digital skills.
Fatima Babakura, the project officer, introduced the scheme at town hall meetings held in the three senatorial districts of Kano State. These sessions took place in Bichi, Rano and Kano Municipal. The project is scheduled to run for 18 months and will focus its efforts on Kano and Bauchi states.
The main goal of the project is to equip participants with the tools needed to join the digital economy. According to Ms Babakura, the objectives include providing training and working with partners to make sure learning continues after the project ends. The team will also work with stakeholders to find more jobs for women in the technology sector.
Training sessions are designed for various groups. These include girls in secondary school, women who left school early and those with higher education degrees. Most of the women taking part will be between 16 and 40 years old. The curriculum covers basic digital literacy and a module on digital safety and hygiene known as Na’ura Tsaftacecciya.
The programme also features a training of trainers element for volunteers and staff. Additionally, girls in their final year of secondary school will receive help with their Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Malam Sunusi Uba, the Kano Zonal Education Director for Rano Zone, spoke in support of the project. He stated: “When women are digitally empowered, the whole society progresses. This initiative is like planting seeds today for a harvest of knowledge and prosperity tomorrow.”
He encouraged the women and girls in attendance to participate fully in the lessons. Uba added: “Knowledge, when nurtured, is like water flowing in a river; it benefits everyone it touches. I urge all women and girls to take full advantage of this opportunity to learn, innovate, and excel.”
