To bridge the digital gap in underserved communities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Development Research and Project Centre (dRPC) has awarded a ₦5 million grant to Rising Hope Girls’ Educational Foundation for the establishment of digital laboratories in ten communities.

The initiative is aimed at transforming access to educational resources for young girls, particularly in schools and communities with little or no digital infrastructure.

Speaking at the commissioning of a digital lab at Junior Secondary School, Chikakore, in Kubwa, Executive Director of dRPC, Dr. Judith-Ann Walker, represented by the Centre’s Director of Partnerships Development and Communication, Hassan Karofi, said the grant is part of dRPC’s effort to support local NGOs affected by recent cuts in overseas funding.

“At the dRPC, the education of our children is a commitment, and we will continue to invest in it,” Walker said, adding that the NGO Support Initiative (NSI) was created to help smaller indigenous organizations survive funding challenges.

Project Director of Rising Hope Girls’ Education Foundation, David Ahanor, said the digital labs are equipped with computers, whiteboards, and internet modems, serving as hubs where students can learn and teachers can creatively integrate technology into lessons.

“Before this project, many schools faced challenges due to lack of digital resources, under-resourced teachers, and gender-based violence. Today, students are using these tools to enhance their digital skills, while cases of bullying and harassment are being actively addressed,” Ahanor said.

He added that the initiative will provide school fee grants for 100 girls, empower over 150 teachers through training in Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy and safe school practices, and engage over 500 students in data training. Communities such as Byzhin, Kubwa, Dutsen-Alhaji, Karon-Majiji, Pasali, Kuje, and Gwarinpa are among the beneficiaries.

Principal of JSS Chikakore, Ishaya Dogo, described the project as a beacon of hope for children in underserved communities.

“Your contribution of desktops will help our students learn better, and your scholarship will give them a brighter future—this is an act of kindness we will never forget,” he said.

Acting Executive Chairman of the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), Dr. Alhassan Sule, represented by Deputy Director, Curriculum, NSA Rabo, commended the initiative, noting that education is everyone’s responsibility and called for more NGO interventions.

The event was attended by members of the school’s Parents Teachers Association, community leaders, and officials from the Chikakore chief’s palace.