Nigeria US – IT Network (NIGUSIT), in partnership with The Wheat Crib Empowerment Initiative, a Lagos-based NGO, has announced the launch of a transformative Free Computer Literacy Programme for primary school children in Oshodi, Lagos State.
The programme, which was launched on Monday, 15th January 2024, aims at providing practical computer skills to 50 children aged 6-10 from six local schools in Oshodi for six weeks. The initiative’s primary goal is to bridge the digital divide by offering essential computer skills to children and promoting technological inclusion.
NIGUSIT is a non-profit organisation based in the United States, established in 2019 and founded by Dr. Micheal Oriade. Its vision is to provide access to affordable IT education and to become Nigeria’s IT resource base, among other goals. 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.
The Wheat Crib Empowerment Initiative and NIGUSIT have established a dedicated computer lab in Oshodi for the six-week computer literacy programme, targeting primary school children and equipping them with vital digital skills for the future. The children will learn various skills, including an introduction to computers, internet safety, basic word processing, introduction to presentations, and collaborative learning.
Former Interim President of NIGUSIT, Mr. James Oche said: “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”.
The newly elected President of NIGUSIT’s Board of Governors, Dr. Isi Idemudia said: “NIGUSIT is committed to fostering innovation and creating pathways for the leaders of tomorrow”.
According to newly elected Vice President of NIGUSIT’s Education Board, Prof. Adiebonye Jumbo, “education plays a vital role in grooming future generations of leaders. NIGUSIT is dedicated to closing the technological divide”.
Former Assistant Secretary of the Board of Governors, who is the programme’s special coordinator, Mrs. Sophie Oladeji said: “We are thrilled to witness the launch of this impactful program. 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”.
The founder of the Wheat Crib Empowerment Initiative, Mr. Adeniyi Giwa said that the collaboration between the two organizations 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.
