An educationist, Mrs Olajumoke Akere, has underscores the important of education and digital literacy,saying the two elements are vital for the advancement of any nation’s economy.
Akere, who is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cherithpoint Education and Youth Development Initiative, said this at a symposium organised by GoToCourse, an Edtech platform, in recognition of Digital Literacy Day in Ibadan.
The theme of discussion was “Digital Inclusion and Accessibility, the challenge of the Digital Divide”.
The expert said that the term digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to digital resources and those who do not.
She said that it was imperative for everyone to double their efforts in promoting digital literacy in this era, so as not to be left in the digital abyss.
Akere emphasized the need for governments as well as private sectors to collaborate and put in place strategies to bridge the digital divide and ensure digital literacy be at the forefront of their strategies.
According to the CEO, education and digital literacy go hand in hand and are substantial for the progression of any nation, especially in this digital era we live in.
Achieving digital inclusion, according to her, transcends providing access to the internet or devices but extends to cultivating a world where every individual can effectively use digital technologies.
The educationist reiterated that closing the digital divide requires prioritising education and skill advancement in Information Communication Technology (ICT) and equipping people with the skills needed to use digital technology efficiently and effectively and in turn promote digital literacy.
The expert further elaborates that inadequate digital literacy can hamper education especially in developing nations.
Akere said that it was not enough to have physical access to technology but also resources and skills are needed to actively engage in the digital world.
The CEO advised that both developed and developing nations must take practical steps to ensure equal access to digital resources.
Akere also listed steps that must be taken by government to bridge this divide which include policy framework formulation, infrastructure development, education and skill advancement.
She suggested that governments should create comprehensive policies that promote digital inclusion.
“These policies could include providing subsidies for broadband and devices, establishing public internet access points, and sponsoring digital literacy programmes.
“There is the need for robust infrastructure that would aid digital inclusion such as nationwide broadband networks,” the expert said.
Akere said that students in rural or impoverished areas often lack access to digital devices and the internet, thus hindering their ability to engage in digital learning.
She said, “Without access to digital technologies, students in disadvantaged regions struggle to develop digital literacy which is critical for future job prospects and participation in the digital economy.”
She highlighted the transformative role that digital technologies can have in enhancing educational experiences through a variety of tools and resources.
In his remark, Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Soliu AbdulWaheed applauded GoToCourse’s efforts of providing digital literacy for the community of students, teachers and educators. ●NAN
