Mobile Workshop on Digital Training
Young People from the 14th Electoral District at the Digital School
Context
Today, over half of young people in Benin have access to a mobile phone or computer and are already engaging with the digital world. However, many of these youths lack knowledge about digital issues and, as a result, may unknowingly get involved in risky or illegal online activities. This lack of understanding can put their safety, freedom, and well-being at risk. To address this, it is crucial to provide thorough and effective education on digital topics to help them navigate the online world safely and responsibly
Action
To address the lack of digital literacy, the Saliou Abeni Foundation organized a mobile workshop in Bassila, Aledjo, and Peninsul—rural areas of the Benin Republic—on Friday, April 26th, and Saturday, April 27th, 2024. This workshop aimed to educate and guide secondary school students from the 14th electoral district about the digital world. The goal was to raise awareness of the benefits and risks associated with digital technologies and to promote more responsible use among young people.
Implementation
The workshop gathered several dozen participants from the districts of Bassila Centre, Manigri, Aledjo, and Peninsul. The young attendees engaged with the information and orientation sessions with great interest and enthusiasm. Mr. Issiakou Souleymane, a digital expert, provided comprehensive insights into the digital sector. He emphasized that the digital world is “an inexhaustible gold mine that generates new professions” and stressed the importance of early awareness to guide students in choosing their academic paths. He highlighted the need to direct students towards future-oriented fields, with the digital sector being a key component. The initiative received support from several organizations, including Plan International Benin and the Francophone Agency for Artificial Intelligence (AFRIA). Benoît Djangni, a representative of Plan International Benin, noted that the MP Alidjanatou Saliou-Arekpa’s initiative aligns well with his organization’s development and training strategies. He remarked, “Digital technology controls everything in today’s world,” and emphasized that without proper guidance and training, young people might go astray. Educating them will help them discern between opportunities and risks in the digital world. Mr. Idrissou Moukaila, representing the MP Alidjanatou Saliou-Arekpa, highlighted the timeliness of this training, particularly as President Patrice Talon’s government is actively combating cybercrime and online harassment. These sessions are designed to help the youth of Bassila and surrounding areas avoid legal pitfalls. Mr. Moukaila conveyed the MP Alidjanatou Saliou-Arekpa’s congratulations to the participants. The presence of several girls among the workshop beneficiaries was especially gratifying for the initiator. Mr. Moukaila noted that their participation reflects an understanding of the importance of knowledge. The MP Saliou-Arekpa urges them to pay close attention, as “the future lies in the digital world.”
Highlights
“I learned a lot from tonight’s training. From now on, I won’t post my photos carelessly. No one will ask me to send a photo, and I’ll just send it without thinking,” shared one participant, clearly delighted. She also mentioned that she now knows “how to do online business.”
Mr Issiakou Souleymane, Digital Expert
“Digital technology controls everything in today’s world”
The next sessions of the itinerant workshop will be held in the communes of Ouaké and Copargo.