Report by AMINU DALHATU; Editing by BASIRAT MEMUDU
Zamfara State government has flagged off a workshop on Digital Skills Manual Development for AGILE project aimed at empowering students particularly girl- child with digital literacy.
The workshop was organised by Zamfara College of Arts and Science-ZACAS Consultancy Services Unit in collaboration with the State Adolescent Girls for Learning and Empowerment-AGILE with a view to develop a comprehensive digital manual for Senior Secondary Schools.
While flagging off the workshop, Zamfara State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Malam Wadato Madawaki explained that, the initiative marks a significant milestone in their collective efforts to transform education and empower students especially the girl-child with the skills necessary to thrive in this digital era.
According to him, in today’s world, digital literacy is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
Malam Madawaki also said the increasing reliance on technology across all sectors of education, governance, commerce, and even agriculture make it necessary to train students and teachers to excel in this digital era.
He commended AGILE and ZACAS Consultancy Services Unit as well as other stakeholders involved for their dedication and expertise in developing digital skills content.
He argued that, the content would serve as a valuable resource in preparing learners for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
“It will cover essential areas such as digital literacy, online safety, information management, and digital entrepreneurship, among others”.
Malam Wadato Madawaki stressed that, Zamfara State government has recognized the critical role of digital skills in national development, and it remain committed to ensuring that schools and colleges integrate technology-driven learning.
The Commissioner encouraged students and teachers to embrace opportunity of digital skills with enthusiasm and determination.
“The future belongs to those who are equipped with the right knowledge and skills, and this initiative provides you with a strong foundation to achieve greatness”.
Malam Wadato Madawaki also announced that, Zamfara State Governor, Dr Dauda Lawal has approved for the upgrade of three schools in each of the three senatorial zones of the state.
In her remark, the Zamfara State Coordinator of AGILE Project, Hajiya Sa’adatu Abdu Gusau stated that, the the project through it Subcomponent 2.2b: Digital Literacy Skills, seeks to equip students with foundational and advanced digital competencies to enhance their learning experience, improve their career prospects and foster innovation.
She said the curriculum launching for developing is a crucial element of the subcomponent.
“It will provide a structured, inclusive, and contextually relevant framework to guide digital literacy training across our intervention schools.
“It is therefore expected to be practical, adaptable, gender-responsive and aligned with global best practices. This is why your expertise and contributions as stakeholders are invaluable in ensuring the curriculum is not only comprehensive but also impactful.
“As we engage in discussions and technical sessions, I encourage us all to focus on designing an activity-based curriculum that is not only accessible but also dynamic One that prepares our students for real-world applications in education, entrepreneurship, and beyond”.
Hajiya Sa’adatu Abdu Gusau emphasized that, the project goal on this subcomponent was to create a pathway for lifelong learning and self-reliance through technology.
“On behalf of the AGILE project, consultants, technical experts, and all partners who have dedicated their time and expertise to this process. Your contributions will leave a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of young girls who, through this initiative, will gain the confidence and skills to shape their futures”.
Various stakeholders had participated during the workshop period.