The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has launched the Digital Literacy (DL) Programme for the Informal Sector, as part of the broader “Digital Literacy for All” (DL4ALL) initiative.
The programme was designed to provide Nigerians with access to digital services, the digital economy, and essential digital skills, and also aims to achieve a 70% digital literacy level in Nigeria by 2027, with a target of training 30 million Nigerians by 2027.
Speaking at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ede on Saturday, Mr. Peter Olayinka, a representative of NITDA, sensitised the Corps Members on Digital Literacy. He defined digital literacy as the ability to find, evaluate, and communicate information using digital platforms, combining both technical and cognitive skills.
He emphasized the life-changing impact of digital literacy, urging Corps Members to volunteer and participate in the initiative. Mr Olayinka informed the members of the components of the programme which includes: integrating digital literacy into school curriculums, training workers, and empowering Corps Members with advanced skills like graphic design, video editing and global employment opportunities.
He added that Digital Literacy Champions would also receive support for data and transportation to facilitate training sessions.
As part of the DL4ALL programme, a debate was organized for the 2024 Batch B Stream II Corps Members, the debate, themed “Digital Literacy in the 21st Century: An Essential Ingredient for Inclusive Governance and Effective Leadership,” featured two representatives from each of the ten platoons, who shared diverse perspectives on the importance of digital literacy in modern society.
The participants discussed the role of digital literacy in empowering citizens to voice their opinions and actively participate in governance. Many speakers highlighted how digital literacy enhanced access to information, increased government transparency, and fostered accountability.
The debate also touched on the significance of digital literacy in national security, with speakers noting its role in improving cybersecurity for both citizens and leaders. Additionally, the need to educate rural populations in digital skills was emphasized, as this would promote inclusive leadership and further national development.
The debate concluded with a strong consensus on the critical role of digital literacy in national progress, serving as a foundation for effective leadership and governance in the digital era.
At the end of the competition, Platoon 1 secured first place with 70.2 points, winning a ₦30,000 cash prize, represented by Nwode Jesse Josh (OS/24B/4021) and Kolade Sharon (LA/24B/7961). Platoon 4 came in second with 60.8 points, winning a ₦20,000 cash prize, represented by Ogieva Aizeyosabor Osazee (OS/24B/4314) and Oscar Alexandra Imaobong (OS/24B/2374). Platoon 6 took third place with 56.8 points, earning a ₦10,000 cash prize, with representatives Amange Dennis Kelvin (OS/24B/3896) and Obazee Daniel Oluwagbemiga (LA/24B/7726).
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