Even though distance and technology-enabled learning has been embraced in many contexts, teachers from rural communities are for the most part unable to have equal participation. Lack of access to affordable technologies and resources makes female teachers and students particularly vulnerable.

With COL’s support, 200 female educators from Nigeria have been trained to use mobile technologies to access e-learning resources, including OER. A recent five-day blended workshop hosted by the Centre for Girls Education (CGE) brought together teachers, teacher educators and quality assurance officers from 40 schools in Zaria and Sabon Gari in the State of Kaduna.

The training was held as part of COL’s Teacher Network for Girls Education (TEN-G) project and aimed at improving knowledge sharing capability among teachers as well as ensuring learning continuity in Mathematics, English Language, Basic Science, Social Studies and Computer Science – the core subjects where girls in the region would need tutorial support.

During the opening session, Ms Habiba Mohammed, CGE Director noted: “This workshop is an exceptional enrichment programme for female teachers to support their students to learn in and outside the classroom. This will go a long way in ensuring that students are able to acquire quality education for lifelong learning.”

TEN-G was established by COL to encourage the use of technology for continued learning, learner support and mentorship for girls in rural areas during the COVID-19 pandemic or other natural calamities.

Dr Betty Ogange, COL’s Education Specialist: Teacher Education, said, “In this project, female teachers in disadvantaged settings are supported to be able to work with teacher colleagues and family members to ensure that girls continue with their learning during educational disruption, and also transition smoothly back to regular schooling.”