As part of efforts to deepen digital literacy and internet-based education and skills in all the States of the Federation, IHS Nigeria Limited has taken its digital literacy training and school connectivity programme to Abia State, South-East, Nigeria.
The Digital Literacy training which kicked off in Osun State is an IHS Nigeria initiative, held in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) under its School Connectivity programme and is supported by the Abia State Government. The event which took place last week Wednesday, trained 100 heads of Schools and teachers drawn from 50 Public Schools in the State in addition to the distribution of 50 Internet Routers
Titilope Oguntuga, Director, Sustainability, IHS Nigeria said “we believe that access to connectivity should unlock opportunities for education, empowerment, and growth in the communities where we operate. This initiative reflects our commitment to creating meaningful social impact by bridging the digital divide and supporting education at the grassroots. In today’s world, digital literacy is not a luxury, it is a necessity. By providing access to these tools, we are helping students acquire skills that will empower them to participate actively in tomorrow’s economy.”
Kazeem Olaonipekun, the Facilitator of the digital training programme, said that the one-day workshop was held in Abia State to digitally equip Schools as part of efforts to develop the quality of education and facilitate easy teaching and learning among the pupils and students in the State.
He said when teachers are trained digitally, they would in turn impact the knowledge to their pupils and students, thereby spreading the intended messages across the State and the Nation at large.
Kazeem said that the advantages and essence of digital literacy Education include, equipping students and teachers for a technology-driven world, enhancing classroom teaching and impacts, empowering critical thinking and problem-solving as well as supporting responsible digital citizenship.
Olaonipekun stated that the internet is used to access the whole world, adding that it enhances classroom teaching and learning.
“As teachers, let your students know that there is negativity in the digital world.
“Information you give out is by the use of space.
“There is nothing you want to teach that is not in the digital space. As teachers, you should equip your students in such a way that they can compete with their peers globally”, Kazeem advised.
He noted that technical skills for educators in digital space include operating computers and mobile phones, navigating file systems, using common software and apps and managing online classrooms.
He also pointed out the ethical and use of the digital space, including online privacy and data protection, cyberbullying, respect for copyright and intellectual property and promoting a positive digital footprint.
While highlighting the benefits inherent in digital literacy, Olaonipekun noted that digital literacy would prepare learners for future jobs and encourage student creativity and collaboration, among others.
Also speaking at the training session, Goodluck Ubochi, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, expressed gratitude to the organisers for their intervention in the education ecosystem nationwide.
He noted that the training would strengthen the standard of teaching at the Basic and Secondary Schools’ level as the participants are expected to cascade the knowledge and skills gained down to the ladder of education, science and technology in the State.
He said, “The business of education is essential that any society that desires growth and transformation cannot do without vigorous training that will be of benefit to the system.
“As a result, any organisation or establishment that aspires to progress in the community, Government policies in the education sector cannot succeed without the unflinching support and co-operation of critical stakeholders in the Education sector, which include UNICEF”, said Ubochi.
The Commissioner, however, urged Head Teachers and Principals present at training to judiciously ensure that they fully participate and pay rapt attention to the learning
He pointed out that digitalisation literacy is the skill required to live, study and work in a society where communication and access to information are rapidly enhanced by digital technology.
