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The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), with funding support from ActionAid Nigeria through the Partnership and Local Rights Programme (P&LRP), organized a three-day ICT Refresher Training for community members at the ICT Centre in Kaida Sabo, Gwagwalada Area Council, FCT.
The training was organized to reinforce digital literacy skills previously acquired by community members and improve their confidence in using computers for education, business, communication and everyday activities. Twenty-five participants attended the training and actively participated throughout the three-day exercise.
The training covered four major modules:
- Introduction to Information and Communication Technology (ICT), including basic concepts and terminology.
- Computer Fundamentals and File Management, focusing on computer operations, folders, files and storage devices.
- Microsoft Office Suite (Microsoft Word), including document creation, editing, formatting and printing.
- Internet and Online Communication, covering internet browsing, online searches and email communication.
The facilitators adopted participatory training methodologies that combined presentations, demonstrations, practical hands-on exercises, group interactions and question-and-answer sessions. This approach enabled participants to practice every lesson immediately after each presentation, thereby improving comprehension and retention.
Participants showed a high level of enthusiasm and actively engaged in all practical sessions. They demonstrated renewed confidence in operating computers and expressed interest in participating in more advanced ICT courses.
However, the Internet and Online Communication practical session was affected by poor network connectivity. Although a newly installed MTN telecommunications mast now serves the community, it currently operates on a 3G network while the ICT Centre router is configured for 4G connectivity. This incompatibility resulted in slow internet speed, preventing participants from completing practical online exercises effectively.
Community leaders informed the training team that discussions are ongoing with the telecommunications contractor regarding an upgrade of the mast from 3G to 4G. The contractor has reportedly responded positively, indicating that the upgrade is expected to take place soon.
Despite this challenge, the overall objectives of the refresher training were substantially achieved, particularly in strengthening participants’ practical ICT competencies and promoting continued utilization of the ICT Centre.
