The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), Avocats Sans Frontières
France and Spaces for Change with of European Union organized an inter-school competition
for secondary schools in Kano titled “Say No to Cyber Bullying Video Competition 2024”. The
aim of the competition was to raise public awareness of the harms of cyber bullying while
addressing the gender digital divide in Nigeria. While the objectives were to:
Increase public awareness and knowledge about cyber bullying, and to cultivate proper
use of the Internet.
Introduce the students to the concept of digital rights in Nigeria.
The competition was attended by the Kano State Commissioner of Science, Technology and
Innovation, Executive Secretary, Kano State Senior Secondary School Management Board,
Executive Secretary, Science Technical Board, Kano State, students and teachers of the
secondary schools, journalists and other invited guests.
In his welcome remarks, the Executive Director of the Centre for Information Technology and
Development, Engr. Y.Z Ya’u on behalf of the partners highlighted the importance of
empowering women and girls to participate actively in the digital space. He emphasized that
the competition serves as a platform to raise awareness among students about the risks and
challenges they face online, particularly cyberbullying and harassment, and how to mitigate
such incidents.
Speaking about the project, Mr. Ya’u said the e-RIGHTS project is aimed at promoting the rights
of Nigerians in the digital sphere, harnessing opportunities and addressing challenges provided
by new technologies. The availability of a safe space for online interaction and engagement of
internet users is one of the greatest threats to internet users particularly youths, activists, and
active citizens. He added. Ya’u also noted that the project would respond directly to the needs
of Nigerian youths, activists, journalists, online news platforms, bloggers, social media
influencers, human rights defenders, and active citizens to have access to a free and open
internet.
Discussing further, the e-RIGHTS Project Officer in Kano, Ali Sabo, elaborated on the growing
prevalence of cyberbullying in Nigeria, particularly among young people, girls, and children in
local communities. He stressed the importance of collective action, stating that while
organizations play a critical role in addressing these issues, community involvement is equally
essential. Ali also mentioned that this initiative had previously been conducted in Imo State,
and after Kano, similar activities would be held in Lagos and FCT, and the winners of the
competition from the states of Kano, Imo, Lagos and FCT will participate at the national
competition to be held in Abuja in January, 2024. The Digital Rights Officer further stated that
the essence of organizing the competition is to give the students the chance to provide ways
and solutions to the prevalent of cyberbullying especially among young girls and boys in the
country.
In his remarks, the Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation
who was represented by Mallam Suleiman A. Karaye, appreciated CITAD and its partners for
organizing the competition, describing it as timely and importance for the children. He further
stated that his ministry will join forces with other relevant organizations working in the area of
Digital Rights and preventing cyberbullying in ensuring the protection of digital rights of the
state’s citizen. On his part, the Executive Secretary, Science and Technical Board represented by
the Director Science, Hajiya Hadiza Hayatudden mentioned that event like this widen students
thinking and helps them to be more creative and self-confident. He assured the partners that
his Board would continue to maintain the good relationship between it and CITAD, and his
board commitment to scaling up the initiative. Also speaking, the Executive Director Kano State
Senior Schools Secondary Board represented by Deputy Director, Recruitment and Training,
Malam Sunusi Isa emphasized his board commitment to providing the students with all the
necessary knowledge and equipment for ICT training. The E.S further mentioned that initiative
like this organize by CITAD ought to emulated and sustained for the benefit of all the society.
Competition Highlights
As part of the competition, the participating schools showcased the videos they produced
addressing various issues such as online safety, cyberbullying, and the importance of bridging
the gender digital divide. The videos were reviewed by judges, dignitaries, students, and other
participants. Five secondary schools participated at the competition and submitted their videos
with the following titles:
1. Fatima Muhammad: Be A Good Citizens; Stop Cyberbullying
2. GGSS Dorayi Karama- Stay In Touch
3. GGSS Unguwa Uku: The Current Situation Of Cyberbullying In Nigeria
4. GTC Dala: What Is Cyberbullying
5. New GSTC Kano: Say No To Cyberbullying
Announcing the winners at the event, the Chief Jury, Comrade Salisu Indabawa, explained the
criteria for evaluating the performances. He emphasized that there were no losers in the
competition, as all participants were winners for their commitment to addressing critical issues
in the digital space.
The final scores of the participating schools were as follows:
1 st Position: New GSTC Kano – 190 Marks
2 nd Position: GTC Dala – 187
3 rd Position: GGSS Unguwa Uku 151
4 th Position: GGSS Dorayi Karama 149
5 th Position: Fatima Muhammad GGSS 144
Award Presentation
The first position school was awarded 120,000 Naira. The second and the third positions
schools were awarded 100,000 and 70,00o Naira respectively. The fourth and fifth schools were
awarded 50,000 Naira each as consolation prizes. Also, certificates of commendation were
presented to the students and their teachers by the distinguished guests.
In his closing remarks, Malam Isa Garba, CITAD’s Senior Program Officer who represented the
Executive Director at the event commended the schools for their dedication and creativity. He
encouraged the students to continue advocating for digital rights and safety, emphasizing that
their active participation is vital in promoting an inclusive digital environment.
Conclusion
The Digital Rights Inter-School Competition in Kano State was a resounding success. The
competition not only raised awareness about the pressing issues of cyberbullying and online
harassment but also inspired young girls to take a proactive stance in the digital space. The
event reinforced the importance of bridging the gender digital divide, ensuring that more young
women have access to safe and empowering online experiences. The event also celebrated the
efforts and creativity of all participants, fostering a sense of accomplishment and motivation
among the students.
PARTICIPANTS: 54
Venue: CITAD Office, Kano
