Nigeria US – IT Network (NIGUSIT) in partnership with the Wheat Crib Empowerment Initiative, a Lagos-based non-governmental organisation has launched a transformative free- computer literacy programme for primary school children in Oshodi, Lagos State.
The programme which was launched recently aims at providing practical computer skills to 50 children aged 6-10 from six local schools in Oshodi for six weeks.
Micheal Oriade. The founder of NIGUSIT, a non-profit organisation based in the United States explained that the organisation’s vision is to provide access to affordable IT education and to become Nigeria’s IT resource base, among other goals.
“The initiative’s primary goal is to bridge the digital divide by offering essential computer skills to children and promoting technological inclusion.
The programme includes a train the trainers’ initiative where selected teachers from the participating schools will be trained on the practical use of computers.
“NIGUSIT is committed to providing computer and technological literacy to the primary school children,” he said.
Speaking further on the initiative, James Oche, the former interim President of NIGUSIT, said the children will learn various skills, including an introduction to computers, internet safety, basic word processing, introduction to presentations, and collaborative learning.
“We believe that access to technology is a fundamental right, and through this partnership with The Wheat Crib, we are taking a concrete step towards democratising digital literacy,” Oche said.
The Wheat Crib Empowerment Initiative and NIGUSIT have established a dedicated computer laboratory in Oshodi for the 6-week computer literacy programme, targeting primary school children and equipping them with vital digital skills for the future.
Isi Idemudia, the newly elected president of the board of governors of NIGUSIT, speaking at the event, said; “NIGUSIT is committed to fostering innovation and creating pathways for the leaders of tomorrow.”
According to Adiebonye Jumbo, the newly elected vice-president of education of the board of governors of NIGUSIT said the organisation is dedicated to closing the technological divide.
“Education plays a vital role in grooming future generations of leaders. NIGUSIT is dedicated to closing the technological divide,” Jumbo said.
Sophie Oladeji, ex-assistant secretary of the board of governors and special coordinator of the programme expressed delight for the launching of the programme at Oshodi.
“We are thrilled to witness the launch of this impactful programme. By combining resources and expertise, NIGUSIT and The Wheat Crib are sowing the seeds of knowledge in Oshodi.
“Our collective vision is to see these children not only using computers but also becoming creators and innovators,” she said.
Adeniyi Giwa, the founder of the Wheat Crib Empowerment Initiative, said that the collaboration between the two organisations is designed to bridge the global digital gap and accelerate learning, development, and innovation for Nigerian children.
“This collaborative effort between NIGUSIT and The Wheat Crib Empowerment Initiative addresses the critical need for computer literacy among primary school children, contributing to the broader goal of national development in Nigeria and in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 9.
“By providing practical skills and knowledge, this program will transform lives and create a ripple effect of positive change in communities across Nigeria,” Giwa noted.
