Vweta Chadwick 'Sheroes' ICT Hub Empowers Girls with ICT Skills in Lagos State

cross section of girls in the ICT lab

The Vweta Chadwick 'Sheroes' ICT Hub proudly graduates the first batch of 42 female students after months of intensive training on the appreciation and application of computer software packages. This is a long-awaited excitement – to empower marginalized girls with equal access to information and communication technology, to thrive in a fast tech-driven environment.

In January 2021, Project ASHA in partnership with the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association Nigeria and the US Consulate launched the Shereos ICT HUB, an all-female, free digital hub to serve and deliver ICT skills to marginalized girls in Lagos state, in memory of Late Vweta Chadwick, Founder and Global Programmes Director, Project ASHA.

After a pool of competitive bids, the ICT hub grant was awarded to Kindle Africa Initiative, Mrs. Funmilayo Adebajo. Located in Isolo part of Lagos state, the graduation event took place at the same location as the hub.

The highlights of the event featured discussions surrounding female participation in the tech space, breakout sessions and keynote speeches delivered by female tech-prenuers.

Rather than living off the streets and exposed to unsafe lifestyles, these girls can be employed and earn money for themselves. With more enhanced courses, they can become skillful programmers and developers. We are particularly passionate about preparing the next generation of females in ICT, who will earn decent incomes, for themselves and their families.

However exciting this achievement is to us, there is a need for more actions to bridge the gender digital gap. ASHA is set to establish more digital hubs and libraries across Lagos state and look forward to spreading to other states in Nigeria – to serve more girls and women.

Graduating students of the ICT Hub with Mrs. Funmi Adebajo, Founder Kindle Africa Initiative

To further achieve a far-reaching impact, Project ASHA is collecting new, old and refurbished computer systems, laptops, printers and other equipment useful in delivering quality ICT Training, for the next ICT facility. One step at a time, we strongly believe underserved girls and women will enjoy digital liberation and access global opportunities, if well supported and equipped.

This is a call to individuals, government agencies and multinationals to support this initiative. Your donations will help us achieve this goal. Also, tech firms and tech professionals are needed as volunteers to train on digital skills and other very sought-after skills.

Beneficiaries of the ICT HUB,  Funmi Adebajo for Kindle Africa and Joseph Waribugo For Project ASHA.