What does it take to set up and maintain a digital literacy centre in any rural community? Simple! the determination and support of the host community!! The commitment of every government, to the development in its communities can be easily achieved if there is a favourable support from the populace. The role of the community members in the development of their community, cannot be over emphasized.
Recently some well-meaning sons and daughters of Imode Development Association (IDA), including my humble self, embarked on a project to build a Digital Literacy Centre in our community. On the 30th of September 2017, with joy and fulfilment, the project was successfully completed and commissioned by the Kabiyesi, Onimode of Imode, Oba J. A. Dada. Imode is in Oke-Ero Local Government of Kwara State.
The Solar Powered Imode Digital Literacy Center, will serve as a launch-pad for making the Community an ICT model in the state as well as in the country, developing local software and systems that preserves the language and culture of Imode people. The centre would also provide technical support for the repair and maintenance of Communications equipment such as phones, tablets and computers within Imode Community as well as provide Internet access for the Community.
All Nigerians should aim to improve the standard of living of the people in their various communities, by empowering their citizens. It does not take much, and does not cost an arm and a leg.
With proper access to information, We can expect bountiful harvest from the farmers, better health and improvement in child delivery and maternal health. With digital literacy centres in our communities, we can expect better delivery and achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in our country. In the rural communities, we also need to promote innovation, disseminate information, offer consultation, and provide training and instructional support. We need to end poverty, protect our environment and ensure prosperity for all. ICT is a very good tool to achieve all these.
Are you already thinking of what to do in your community? Do not hesitate to setup a literacy centre for the education and enlightenment of the people. If it has to be, it is up to you!
It is a steady progression. There are now over 97,000 active .ng domains. Before the end of October 2017, NIRA will have crossed the 100,000 active domains mark. See more details in the news section.
Please do remember to be part of AFRINIC-27, an event majorly for the African Internet community, hosted by NIRA. Registration is still ongoing. All efforts are on to make this event as memorable as possible. Visit the AFRINIC-27 website to learn more about this event and register via the link https://meeting.afrinic.net/afrinic-27/about/afrinic-27
I remain at your service.
Rev’d Sunday Folayan
President, NIRA Executive Board