CITAD Flags Off 4th Nigerian School of Community Network Course to Bridge Digital Divide
By Mustapha Salisu
In its ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide in Nigeria, the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has launched its 4th edition of the Nigerian School of Community Network (4NSCN) course, featuring 27 successful candidates from across the country.
The opening ceremony, held at CITAD’s Kano office, brought together participants from Kano, Bauchi, and other states who are committed to becoming advocates for digital justice.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Director of CITAD, Engr. Y.Z. Ya’u, represented by Malam Muhammad Abdullahi Yakassai, emphasized that community development is central to CITAD’s mission.
He noted that sustainable community growth relies heavily on networking and urged participants to dedicate themselves to the training. “Your commitment will enable you to uplift the network level in your respective communities, bridge the digital divide, and connect to the global community,” he stated.
Also speaking, the Coordinator, Nigerian School of Community Network at CITAD, Malam Adamu Haruna Hadejia, highlighted the program’s goal of producing skilled professionals capable of developing, owning, and managing community networks.
“The essence of community networks is to address the digital divide in under-served or un-served communities with limited or no network access,” he explained.
Hadejia stressed the importance of achieving digital justice, adding, “Every community deserves connectivity. Where there are gaps, local solutions must be deployed, including identifying financing, building linkages with service providers, and ensuring the security of developed resources.”
Earlier in her remarks, Mrs. Mary Uduma, Chair of the Advisory Committee on Community Networks, commended CITAD for sustaining the program through its fourth edition.
She equally congratulated the participants on joining the “digital justice” movement, which seeks to ensure that internet access is available, affordable, and accessible for all communities.
