Digital Skills Training to Girls in Gboko

Reporting Period: February 5, 2022 – April 2024

Since its launch on February 5, 2022, the Digital Skills Training for School Girls project by Gender Equality Club Nigeria has made significant strides in bridging the gender digital divide among schoolgirls in Gboko, Benue State.

2022 Progress

During the pilot phase (February – December 2022), the project successfully trained 50 schoolgirls from two secondary schools in Gboko. The initiative provided hands-on digital skills training, equipping participants with essential ICT knowledge to enhance their educational and career readiness.

2023 Achievements

In 2023, the project gained international recognition through its acceptance on the GlobalGiving platform. A fundraising campaign was launched, receiving $1,100 USD in donations as of April 2024. With this support, the project expanded its reach, impacting over 150 schoolgirls across three secondary schools.

The training notably prepared the girls to confidently participate in JAMB’s UTME computer-based examinations a critical entry assessment into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Many participants, aged 16 to 20, were handling computers for the first time through this program.

Setback in 2024

Tragically, on June 24, 2024, the project suffered a major setback due to an arson attack that destroyed the ICT Resource Centre, including all computers and training equipment. This has temporarily halted physical training activities.

Our last project report was published on March 11, 2025, titled The Impact of Turf Time on the Project. Despite ongoing challenges, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advancing gender equality in the technology space. We may be struggling but we are not giving up.

Current Needs & Call for Support

Despite the setback, Gender Equality Club Nigeria remains committed to continuing this vital work. The team is actively seeking:

• Local partnerships and collaborations

• Community resource support

• Grants and philanthropic funding opportunities

Our goal is to restore the ICT Resource Centre and resume training to reach even more girls many of whom are just beginning their digital journey as teenagers and young adults.

Support Our Mission

We call on philanthropic organizations, international development partners, and individuals to support this transformative program. Your contribution will help us rebuild and continue empowering girls through digital education, opening pathways to brighter futures.

We look forward to your support.

The Digital Skills Training program for girls in Gboko has made significant strides in empowering young women, benefiting over 150 individuals since its inception. Despite a major setback in the form of an arson attack on our office on June 24, 2024, the program has persevered.

A recent report, dated November 12, 2024, highlights the significant impact of the arson attack on our ICT infrastructure, hindering the program's ability to achieve its intended impact and goals.

From November 12, 2024, to March 11, 2025, during a period of turf time (a period of inactivity or disruption), the program strategically adapted to ensure continuity. This involved raising community awareness to garner local support and actively seeking external assistance to establish a mini ICT center. This adaptation was crucial in maintaining the program, allowing young girls to continue gaining hands-on experience in vital digital areas, including web design, digital marketing, and STEM fields.

Appeal for Support:

To further enhance our program, we appeal for support to acquire new computers, which are crucial for equipping our students with up-to-date technology and resources.

Thanks to the generous support of our donors since the program commenced, we have been able to continue our mission to equip girls with essential digital skills. We are grateful for the backing we've received, and with continued support, we aim to expand our reach and impact even further.