The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), Advocats Sans Frontieres and Spaces for Change and supported by the European Union, in their efforts to bridge the gender digital divide nationwide, has announced the winners of its Women’s Digital Rights Video Competition.
The event was held today at CITAD’s office in Kano on Wednesday and it brought together girls secondary school students, stakeholders and advocates for digital inclusion.
It is gathered that schools that participated in the competition include: Fatima Muhammad Girls Secondary School, GSS Dorayi Karama, GGSS U/Uku, GTC Dala and New GSTC.
In his welcome remarks, the Executive Director of CITAD, Engr. Y.Z Ya’u applauded the secondary school students for their active participation in the competition.
Represented by the Centre’s Senior Programs Officer, Isa Garba, He emphasized the importance of engaging young people in conversations about women’s digital rights, noting that such initiatives empower the younger generation to champion gender equality and digital inclusion in their communities.
“This competition is not just about creativity; it is about amplifying the voices of young people to address critical issues such as access to digital technology, online safety, and the promotion of women’s rights in the digital space,” Engr. Ya’u stated.
The competition, according to Ya’u is part of CITAD’s ongoing advocacy for women’s rights in the digital era, providing a platform for students to showcase their understanding of the challenges women face online and propose innovative solutions.
Speaking earlier, Ali Sabo, the E-Rights Program Officer in Kano State, emphasized the growing issue of cyberbullying in Nigeria, particularly among young people, girls, and children in communities.
Sabo explained that rather than civil society organizations solely providing solutions, this initiative encourages communities to develop their strategies to address the problem.
He highlighted that similar activities have been held, starting in Imo State, with Kano being the second host. Upcoming events are scheduled for Lagos and Abuja, where winners will advance to a national competition in Abuja.
Announcing the winners, Chief Jury of the event, Comrade Salisu M. Indabawa, declared New GSTC as the 1st-place winner, followed by GTC Dala in 2nd place, GGSS U/Uku in 3rd place, GSS Dorayi Karama in 4th place, and Fatima Muhammad Girls Secondary School in 5th place.
He reminded the participants that there were no losers in the competition and encouraged them to strive for excellence in future events.
Reports say that all participants received cash prizes and certificates of recognition, with CITAD reaffirming its commitment to nurturing a generation of informed digital rights advocates.