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From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi
As part of activities to commemorate the 16 Days of Activisim against Sexual ND Gender Based Violence, (SGBV), over 20 Benue female undergraduates have been empowered as Digital Safety Ambassadors, equipping them with vital digital skills to advocate against challenges using social media.
Executive Director, Redefining Civic Engagement in Africa, RACE center, Pauline Ikyereve disclosed this during a one day seminar organized by Initiative For Human Rights And Gender Awareness in collaboration with Center For Redefining civic Engagement in Africa, RACE center, International Federation Of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Benue State Chapter and Protect Us Kids.
The programme, themed “Staying Safe Online Project” was aimed at fostering digital rights and safety awareness, to enable girls tackle the pressing issues of cyberbullying, harassment, and all forms of Tech-Facilitated Gender-GBased Violence (TFGBV).
The meeting brought together content creators, female social media influencers including medical practitioners, women right activists, journalist, videographers, Digital rights activists to advocate for digital safety awareness, and rights of women and girls to engage and navigate the online space confidently.
Ikyereve said, “We unite as social media influencers from Benue State, passionate about empowering women and girls in the digital space. Through this project, we have proudly empowered 20 undergraduates as digital ambassadors.
The women right activist who promised not to stop there stated further “We are expanding our awareness campaigns to reach high school learners, enhancing their digital literacy and practical safeguarding skills. We believe that with the right tools, including AI technology, they can confidently navigate the digital landscape while fostering a culture of peer learning and support.
“Moreover, we aim to engage with government and educational institutions to advocate for necessary policy changes and a curriculum review focused on digital safety and mental wellness. This is essential for creating an ethical educational ecosystem.
“As key actors in the digital world, your voices are crucial. You have the power to shape discussions and drive solutions that prioritize the safety of women and girls. By sharing your insights and experiences, we can collectively address the barriers faced by these vulnerable groups online.
“This gathering also aligns with our commitment to this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, themed “End Digital Violence”. Together, let’s ensure that the digital experiences of women and girls are visible, empowered, and free from the threats that often lurk behind technology.
Also, Program Manager RACE center, Uwaila Omosigho said they carry out research, social change as well as work in internally displaced persons camp, adding that they serve as a tool for advocacy, societal change especially against gender violence.
She charged content creators to provide contents that uphold values, urging them to drive positive social change.
The Chairperson of FIDA Benue, Blessing Ityohuun noted that the impact of digital violence could be seen in mental health causing stress, anxiety and suicide, economic disadvantages and social retreat, while a Medical practitioner and member of Medical Women Association, Dr Goodness Amuta, stressed the need for political will to stop gender based violence, strengthen legal acts as well as embark on community led awareness campaigns.
