Updates

In a world increasingly shaped by digital innovation, the topic of access to technology, digital skills development and digital inclusion can no longer be seen as optional but a necessity. Gender inequality in digital access and skills is a growing challenge that threatens to deepen existing social and economic divides.

We are living in an era of relentless transformation from the rapid advancements in AI and biotechnology to the urgent challenges of rising inequality and climate crises. Research is not a luxury but an indispensable compass guiding us through complexity and toward sustainable, inclusive progress. At the very heart of this journey lies education, the foundational bedrock upon which innovation, adaptability, and national development rest. The Centre for Digital Development and Innovation Research (CDDIR), an initiative of AREAi, is deeply committed to leveraging robust research to transform Nigeria’s education sector and contribute meaningfully to the global discourse.

Effective communication is the backbone of any successful social impact initiative, and at AREAi, we’ve learned that crafting compelling narratives, leveraging diverse channels, and engaging authentically with our audience are key to driving meaningful change and achieving our mission.

In the dynamic realm of nonprofits and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), the drive to effect meaningful change often propels employees to invest immense time and energy into their work. While this dedication is commendable, it can inadvertently lead to burnout if employee well-being is not prioritised.

In an increasingly digital world, why should young African girls be left behind simply because they don’t have the tools or opportunities to learn and grow? For many girls, especially in underserved communities, access to technology is still out of reach. Limited resources, cultural expectations, gender-based discrimination, and outdated norms prevent them from exploring the tech and digital fields that could transform their lives.

Education is one of the most powerful tools for personal and societal growth (Rury & Rury, 2005). However, in many parts of the world, especially in developing countries, gender disparities continue to threaten educational opportunities and development (Zickafoose et al., 2024).

Play a 5-second game with me: name the first five tech innovators that pop into your head.
1… 2… 3… 4… 5!

I’m willing to bet that men dominate your list. I’m guilty of it too—my mental list was overflowing with familiar male faces, while female innovators were scarce. I’m guessing you felt a similar pang of realisation. It’s a feeling that’s both uncomfortable and enlightening.

The FastTrack Innovation Scale Fund Accelerator (FIS-Fund Accelerator) represents a ground-breaking opportunity to transform foundational learning for marginalized learners in Nigeria and Africa at large. By fostering innovation, collaboration, and impact, the Accelerator will empower millions of children to unlock their full potential and break the cycle of educational disadvantage. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Women Techies Africa is a sub-program under our Digital Skills Accelerator (DSA) intervention by Aid for Rural Education Access Initiative (AREAi) and is open ONLY to adolescent girls, young women or female students in their final year of undergraduate studies across African universities between the ages of 16 – 30. Girls who want to build technology-based and in-demand skills for the creative economy.

African countries are struggling with numerous challenges, at the peak is economic hardship for local and international organisations. High inflation and rising living costs have made it increasingly difficult for many NGOs to sustain their operations. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs), that focus on solving societal issues rather than generating profits, are particularly vulnerable to inadequate resources.

AREAi launches the English Scholarship Access Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, managed by the local U.S. Embassy/Consulate in Nigeria.

Over time, the intersection of cognitive science and educational technology has opened new ways for bettering the learning experience. At the forefront of this development is Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI); with Gen AI, we can create personalized learning content tailored to the learner’s learning requirements, ditching the one-size-fits-all approach.

Aid for Rural Education Access Initiative (AREAi) has been named one of the 6 finalists of the 2024 WISE Prize for Education. AREAi joins a group of exceptional organizations from across the world as the only Nigerian and African entity in this year’s final shortlist of a global prize dedicated to recognising outstanding, world-class contributions to education.

Photography has always had the power to tell stories that words alone cannot convey. In the hands of activists, it becomes a force for social change, a bridge between art and advocacy, where images spark reflection, raise awareness and incite action. This intersection of art and activism invites photographers to use their creative expression as a vehicle for justice, amplifying the voices of those who need to be heard.