TLDR: The Development Research and Project Centre (dRPC), in partnership with the Rising Hope Girls’ Educational Foundation (RHGE), has launched a comprehensive initiative in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to enhance digital literacy and address school-related gender-based violence. The program includes the establishment of 10 digital laboratories, training for 150 teachers in digital and AI literacy, and the provision of 20 scholarships to underprivileged students, supported by a ₦5 million grant.
Abuja, FCT – The Development Research and Project Centre (dRPC) has significantly advanced its commitment to fostering digital literacy and tackling school-related gender-based violence in underserved communities across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Through a strategic partnership with the Rising Hope Girls’ Educational Foundation (RHGE), dRPC has implemented a multi-faceted intervention that includes the establishment of digital laboratories, extensive teacher training, and scholarship awards.
This impactful initiative is underpinned by a ₦5 million grant provided by dRPC to RHGE, enabling the establishment of 10 state-of-the-art digital laboratories in various FCT communities. These labs, equipped with modern computers, whiteboards, and internet modems, are designed to serve as vital learning hubs for both students and teachers. The program has already seen 150 teachers undergo specialized training in digital literacy and safe school practices. Notably, this training also includes ‘Artificial Intelligence literacy’, equipping educators with cutting-edge skills to integrate technology into their teaching methodologies and prepare students for a digitally-driven future. Furthermore, the initiative has awarded 20 scholarships to indigent children in Chikakore and other beneficiary communities, with a broader goal to provide school fee grants for 100 girls.
Speaking at the commissioning of a digital lab at Junior Secondary School Chikakore in Kubwa, Dr. Judith-Ann Walker, Executive Director of dRPC, highlighted the significance of the intervention. Represented by Hassan Aliyu Karofi, the Centre’s Director of Partnerships, Development and Communication, Dr. Walker stated that the program is a crucial component of dRPC’s NGO Support Initiative (NSI). This initiative was specifically designed to mitigate the adverse effects of recent funding cuts experienced by local non-profit organizations. “Last year, when the United States government disbanded USAID and stopped funding other global non-profits, our organisation was affected. Having been around for 33 years, we understand how much smaller indigenous NGOs are struggling, and this initiative is a way to keep their impact alive,” Dr. Walker explained. She reiterated dRPC’s unwavering commitment to investing in education and supporting grassroots organizations, adding, “At the dRPC, the education of our children is a commitment, and we will continue to invest in it.”
David Ahanor, Project Director of the Rising Hope Girls’ Educational Foundation, elaborated on the project’s objectives and achievements. He noted that the digital labs are instrumental in addressing long-standing challenges such as limited access to digital resources and under-resourced teachers. He also emphasized the project’s role in combating school-related gender-based violence. “Students are now confident about using these tools to enhance their digital rights, and issues of bullying and sexual harassment are now being combated,” Ahanor affirmed. The initiative has positively impacted over 500 students through digital training and sensitization on safe school practices, and more than 400 parents and youths have been engaged through community campaigns.
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Ishaya Dogo, the Director Principal of Junior Secondary School Chikakore, expressed profound gratitude for the intervention, describing it as “a beacon of hope” for children in underserved communities. He remarked, “To our donors, we are deeply grateful. Your contribution of desktops will help our students learn better and your scholarship will give our children a brighter future; this is an act of kindness we will never forget.” Teachers in communities such as Byzhin, Kubwa, and Dutsen-Alhaji are already applying AI tools in lesson preparation and actively leading safe school advocacy. Other beneficiary communities include Karon-Majiji, Pasali, Kuje, and Gwarinpa.
