ICT Development: CITAD Concludes #eRIGHTS Women’s Digital Rights Video Competition

In an effort to bridge the gender digital divide in Nigeria, the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has concluded the #eRIGHTS Women’s Digital Rights Video Competition, presenting certificates and prizes to the winners.

The programme, supported by Avocats Sans Frontières France and Spaces for Change (S4C), was held at CITAD’s office in Kano, North-West Nigeria. It brought together secondary school students, stakeholders, and advocates of digital inclusion.

Participating schools included Fatima Muhammad Girls Secondary School, GSS Dorayi Karama, GGSS U/Uku, GTC Dala, and New GSTC.

According to the Executive Director of CITAD, Engr. Yunusa Ya’u, the competition aimed to engage young people in discussions about women’s digital rights.

Represented by Senior Programmes Officer Isa Garba, Engr. Ya’u commended the students for their active participation and emphasised the importance of empowering the younger generation.

“This competition is not just about creativity; it is about amplifying the voices of young people to address critical issues such as access to digital technology, online safety, and the promotion of women’s rights in the digital space,” Engr. Ya’u stated.

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The competition is part of CITAD’s ongoing advocacy for women’s rights in the digital era, providing a platform for students to showcase their understanding of the challenges women face online and propose innovative solutions.

Speaking at the event, E-Rights Programme Officer in Kano State, Ali Sabo, highlighted the growing issue of cyberbullying in Nigeria, particularly among young people, girls, and children. Sabo explained that the initiative encourages communities to develop their own strategies to address these issues, rather than relying solely on civil society organisations.

He noted that similar activities had taken place, starting in Imo State, with Kano being the second host. Upcoming events are scheduled for Lagos and Abuja, where winners will progress to a national competition in Abuja.

In the competition, New GSTC emerged as the first-place winner, followed by GTC Dala in second place, GGSS U/Uku in third place, GSS Dorayi Karama in fourth place, and Fatima Muhammad Girls Secondary School in fifth place.