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CITAD urges women, girls to actively participate in digital space

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has urged women and girls to actively participate in the digital space, emphasizing the importance of online safety and emerging technologies.

The call was made on Sunday during a one-day workshop organized by CITAD at Sudawa College of Nursing & Midwifery, Kano. The workshop, themed “AI Deepfakes, Cyberbullying, Harmful Content Reporting, and Data Protection,” aimed to equip participants with practical knowledge to navigate the digital world safely.

Speaking on behalf of CITAD Executive Director Malam Yunusa Zakari Ya’u, CITAD Programme Officer Isah Garba said the organisation uses information and communication technology (ICT) to promote social development, good governance, and education.

“Every 8th of March, CITAD marks International Women’s Day with unique activities that empower women and girls,” Garba said. “Our focus is on promoting women’s rights, fighting gender-based violence, advancing digital inclusion, cybersecurity, peace-building, and youth entrepreneurship training.”

He added that the workshop was particularly designed to address challenges posed by emerging artificial intelligence technologies, including AI deepfakes and cyberbullying.

“The session equips participants with practical skills to identify AI-manipulated images and videos, report harmful content using platforms like Repotrix, and safeguard their personal data online,” Garba explained.

On her part, Miss Ogedegbe Sarah, representing the students of Sudawa College of Nursing & Midwifery, lauded the initiative and called on participants to apply the knowledge gained.

“In today’s world, where artificial intelligence plays a significant role, it is crucial that we understand how to protect ourselves online and report harmful content,” she said.

International Women’s Day, celebrated every 8th of March, commemorates women’s struggles for equality and liberation, spotlighting issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and the fight against violence and abuse.

The theme for IWD 2026 is: “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.”