NGO harps on digital literacy for rural women
By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Country Women’s Association of Nigeria (COWAN), an NGO, has called for mainstreaming of rural women to technological tools and services to protect them.
The National President of COWAN, Princess Adesola Ogunleye, made the appeal at the 41st Anniversary Conference of COWAN.
The conference with the theme “Technology Innovation for Nigerian Women Development: Impacting All from the Grassroots”, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Ogunleye said that empowering women in a technologically disrupted universe, transcends mere rhetoric, adding that it required concrete steps and unwavering commitment.
She said that efforts must be made to eliminate the digital divide by providing women with access to affordable data and devices to connect them to digital learning opportunities.
“I implore you all to actively participate in today’s discussions, to share your insights and collaborate in propelling digital empowerment for Nigerian women.
“Together, we can harness the full potential of technology to create opportunities, bridge divides and enhance the lives of women,” she said.
Ogunleye said celebrating the organisation’s 41 years of existence and impact amidst Nigeria’s challenging economic landscape had shown the consistent approach exhibited in creating an impact.
She explained that the event was designed to serve as a beacon of recognition and appreciation for the partners, sponsors and supporters of COWAN’s mission.
According to her, it is their desire to use the platform to serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for stakeholders in the rural women empowerment space.
The president, however, said that the commitment was the legacy of her mother and Founder of COWAN, Chief Bisi Ogunleye.
She said Ogunleye’s tireless efforts in advancing the cause of rural women in Nigeria encompassed various facets of empowerment.
She added that the founder put education at the forefront of her endeavours, by passionately advocating for girls’ education, which lead to increased enrolment and retention rates.
“As a staunch women’s rights advocate, she challenged harmful practices and gender-based violence and contributed to enhanced quality of life.
“I am extremely happy that her enduring legacy continues to those of us that are dedicated to women’s empowerment and rural progress in Nigeria,” she stressed.
In her remarks, the National Coordinator of COWAN, Chief Anita Okuribido, said there was need to rekindle the mission of the association.
She called on all stakeholders to support the cause of COWAN to serve humanity, empower women and youth entrepreneurs in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was held in commemoration of International Day of Rural Women celebrated annually on October 15. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Aisha Ahmed/Muhammad Suleiman Tola
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