Guardian Nigeria
Vice Chancellor (VC), University of Jos (UNIJOS), Prof Tanko Ishaya, has identified the high cost of Internet services as well as the lack of awareness and understanding of digital technologies among large segments of the population as significant barriers to Nigeria’s drive for digital economy.
Ishaya made this known, yesterday, in Abuja during a National Stakeholders’ Workshop and Symposium on the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Enhancing Sales of Women-led Businesses in Nigeria, put together by the Global Integrated Education Volunteers Association (GIEVA).
According to the VC, despite improvements in recent years, the country’s digital infrastructure remains inadequate, especially in rural areas, where connectivity is often unreliable or non-existent.
The don regretted that women face additional barriers to digital inclusion, especially due to cultural norms, limited access to education and unequal opportunities in the labour market.
He said, “The high cost of devices and Internet services poses a significant
barrier to access for many Nigerians, particularly those living below the poverty line.
“There is a lack of awareness and understanding of digital technologies among large segments of the population, hindering their ability to fully participate in the digital economy.”
To ensure inclusivity, Ishaya canvassed policies to reduce the cost of devices and Internet services, such as subsidies for low-income households and tax incentives to telecommunications companies.
A comprehensive digital literacy programme, according to him, must be developed and implemented at all levels of education, with a focus on practical skills training and awareness campaigns targeting underserved communities.
The VC further called for the provision of training in in-demand digital skills such as coding, data analysis, digital marketing and cybersecurity to help individuals acquire the skills needed to secure employment in the emerging digital economy.
“Government and private sector investment is needed to expand broadband infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas, to ensure universal access to high-speed Internet,” he added.
Chief executive Officer (CEO) of GIEVA, Zhebati Ogodo, said the organisation’s focus was to create a sustainable model that would nurture talent, foster innovation and drive economic growth.
The aim of the symposium, Ogodo added, was to set in motion a transformative agenda that would empower individuals and communities through education, training and skill development.
