Lagos: Participants at a digital citizenship training for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in Lagos have called for advanced digital skills programmes. The two-day event was organised by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to promote safe and productive digital participation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mrs. Binta Agbonika, the Lead Facilitator, noted that participants demonstrated stronger digital knowledge than expected, highlighting the need for more specialised technology training. Agbonika, who is also the Head of Career Advancement Centre at Miva Open University, stated that the training revealed gaps in participants’ knowledge of accessibility features, despite their considerable digital skills.
The training introduced various accessibility features, including voice-to-text, text-to-speech, magnification, and large text. Cybersecurity was another major component, teaching participants how to protect their devices and personal information. Additionally, the programme covered free online learning platforms, CV improvement, email usage, and opportunities for freelance work.
Agbonika urged stakeholders to advance PwDs beyond basic digital literacy, as their performance indicated readiness for more specialised training. She also emphasized the need for accessible training venues with adequate movement space and suitable facilities for those with mobility challenges.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that participants from different disability groups attended the training, which focused on digital skills, accessibility tools, and online opportunities. Mr. Hammed Wasiu, a participant from People with Disabilities in Agege, noted that the training improved his knowledge of accessibility features, and expressed interest in digital marketing.
Mr. Samuel Ezewanta from the Albinism Association of Nigeria learned to tailor CVs to specific job applications and create stronger passwords. He highlighted issues with overcrowding at the venue, which affected participants’ comfort.
Bolu Raji, a secondary school student, gained knowledge in CV preparation and online safety. He appealed for devices to support continued practice. Calister Uche, a content creator with albinism, learned to use magnification and voice-input features to create content that raises awareness and protects against online scams.
Mrs. Titilayo Odukoya from the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) said the training would enhance her performance as a civil servant. She called on the NCC to provide devices to help participants practise and consolidate their skills, extending the programme’s benefits beyond mobile-phone-based learning.