NDDC Empowers Niger Delta Girls With Digital Education, AI Focus

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has launched a major initiative to empower young girls in the region, with a focus on digital education and artificial intelligence (AI) as tools for societal progress.

The “Help the Girl Child” program took place at the Justice Mary Odili Judicial Institute in Port Harcourt.

NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku emphasised the importance of educating girls and giving them a voice in society.

He emphasised the commission’s commitment to providing enabling platforms for girls to reach their full potential, which goes beyond infrastructure development to heavily invest in human resources.

This commitment, represented by Dr. Patience Ezugu, an NDDC Director of Education, Health, and Social Services, includes the distribution of textbooks and U-lesson tablets to improve digital learning.

The program was not solely focused on technology. It also included important health and hygiene education, with hygiene kits distributed to participants.

Dr. Ezugu emphasised the NDDC’s commitment to combating harmful traditional practices such as female genital mutilation and early marriage, stating that education is the key to overcoming poverty.

The commission supports initiatives such as Cholera, Yellow Fever, and Hepatitis B vaccinations, as well as a strong anti-drug message.

Several prominent figures delivered inspirational speeches at the event. Mr. Okezie Ule, Director of the NDDC Port Harcourt State Office (represented by Mrs. Benjamin), encouraged the girls to prioritise their education and self-esteem.

Mrs. Uche Oriri, lawyer and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs, Rivers State, emphasised the law’s gender-neutral nature, encouraging girls to pursue any career path they choose.

The program had a positive impact, as evidenced by participant feedback. Miss Joy Gabriel expressed her appreciation for the positive and impactful experience.

The NDDC’s “Help the Girl Child” program is a significant step towards empowering the next generation of female leaders in the Niger Delta, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges of the twenty-first century and make meaningful contributions to their communities.