As part of efforts to address school-related gender-based violence and improve digital literacy for neglected communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC) has supported the Rising Hope Girls’ Educational Foundation (RHGE), one of the 17 NGOs funded under its NGO Strengthening Initiative (NSI) grant programme, with a ₦5 million grant for the establishment of digital laboratories in ten communities.

The project, implemented by RHGE, also trained 150 teachers on digital literacy and awarded 20 scholarships to indigent children in Chikakore and other communities across the FCT.

Speaking at the commissioning of a digital lab in Junior Secondary School, Chikakore, Kubwa, Abuja, the Executive Director of dRPC, Dr. Judith-Ann Walker, represented by the Director, Partnerships Development and Communication, Hassan Aliyu Karofi, described the project as a significant investment in education and a response to funding cuts faced by many local NGOs.

“At the dRPC, the education of our children is a commitment, and we will continue to invest in it,” she stated.

Walker noted that the USAID funding cuts had left many local NGOs crippled, which is why the dRPC established the NSI grant to support indigenous NGOs that were affected.

Project Director of RHGE, David Ahanor, commended the dRPC for its support, explaining that the digital labs are equipped with computers, whiteboards, and internet modems, creating hubs where students can learn and teachers can explore technology in their lessons.

“These labs are now serving as hubs where students can learn and teachers can explore the creative use of technology,” he said.

He added that before the intervention, many schools faced challenges due to limited access to digital resources and under-resourced teachers, which made issues of bullying and sexual harassment difficult to tackle.

“Students are now confident about using these tools to enhance their digital rights, and issues of bullying and sexual harassment are now being combated,” he said.

Ahanor further highlighted that over 150 teachers were trained in Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy and safe school practices, and more than 500 students received data training and sensitization on safe school practices.

Director Principal of the JSS Chikakore, Ishaya Dogo, described the project as a beacon of hope for children in underserved communities, noting that the donation of desktops and provision of scholarships will give students a brighter future.

Acting Executive Chairman of the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), Dr. Alhassan Sule, represented by the Deputy Director, Curriculum, NSA Rabo, commended the initiative and called on more NGOs to collaborate with government in improving computer education.

The event was attended by executives of the school’s Parents Teachers Association (PTA), the Chief of Chikakore community, Chief John Azaecheyi, and officials of his palace.