Youth for Technology Foundation Launches Project LLP to Transform Libraries in Nigeria
April 2015, Nigeria. Youth for Technology Foundation (YTF) has partnered with Beyond Access, a program of the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX) and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, to launch Learning and Libraries, Project LLP, in Nigeria. This project aims to improve people’s lives by increasing their opportunity to actively participate in the informational economy. The project’s activities will center on information and communications technology (ICT) access and training and empowering people to use these skills to play a role in the national economy as well-educated citizens, employees or entrepreneurs.
In partnership with the Anambra State Library Board and the Librarians’ Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN), Project LLP will support interest-driven and academically-oriented learning for youth by promoting the fabric of social equity, connectedness and participation through digital skills training for 500 youth, teachers, librarians and civil servants.
Despite Nigeria’s place as Africa’s largest economy and largest population, technology adoption lags behind. The 2013 Annual Socio-Economic Report: Access to Information and Communication Technology, the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics and the Central Bank of Nigeria noted that less than six percent of Nigerians have access to a computer or the Internet, and only 0.9 percent own a computer. Although Nigeria has made great strides, the national government’s emphasis on economic development has left education and libraries far behind leaving millions of Nigerians in information and knowledge limbo.
“Libraries play a crucial role in instilling positive values, attitudes and behaviors,” said Njideka Harry, YTF’s Chief Executive. “They are a safe haven ensuring that all community members irrespective of age, gender or socio-economic background have access to information empowering them to make informed decisions. We are pleased to partner with Beyond Access to support this program in Nigeria.”
Project LLP will energize the links between digital technology, education, libraries and lifelong learning through digital literacy skills training for youth and young adults, library staff and teachers. Project LLP represents new populations and new opportunities to be served by YTF’s longstanding and recognized educational programs in digital literacy. Building on a proven foundation of digital literacy-based training, the project will use YTF’s award winning customized ICT and life skills curriculum.
