Empowering Youth Through Digital Skills Training in Dakwa Community

The purpose of this training was to bring together participants from various communities across the FCT, including Lelegwari and Jiwa, under the unifying theme of this year’s International Youth Day: "From Click to Progress: Youth Digital Pathway for Sustainable Development." 

This theme showcases the transforming power of digital skills in empowering young people, particularly in their ability to hold leaders accountable, make informed decisions, and improve their livelihoods.

This event captured the third strategic objective of the Strategic Partnership Agreement II (SPA II) Project, which focused on the increased participation and skills of young people, particularly young women, and their organisations, networks and movements in youth-led programmes, campaigns and advocacy for improved, sustainable livelihoods, resilience and protection.  

Investing in the Future: The Impact of Capacity Building

The importance of this training cannot be overstated. As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, the ability to navigate and leverage digital tools is no longer a luxury but a necessity. The young participants from Dakwa and surrounding communities are being provided with opportunities to gain practical skills that will enable them to become content creators and digital storytellers, roles that are crucial in today’s global village.

Day one of the training focused on video editing and script writing, two essential components of content generation. These skills are not just about creating videos; they are about telling stories that matter, influencing public opinion, and driving social change. In a world where digital content is king, the ability to craft compelling narratives and present them visually is a powerful tool for advocacy and sustainable development.

Voices from the Training

The enthusiasm among the participants was palpable. Many expressed their excitement about the new skills they were acquiring and how these would enable them to contribute more meaningfully to their communities. For these young people, the training represents more than just learning technical skills; it is an opportunity to amplify their voices, share their experiences, and influence the future of their communities.

One participant, Aisha from Jiwa noted, "This training has opened my eyes to the power of digital tools in community development. I can now see how I can use video editing and script writing to tell the stories of my community and highlight the issues that matter most to us."

Another participant, Miracle, from Lelegwari shared, "I’ve always wanted to learn video editing, but I never had the chance. Now, I’m not only learning it, but I’m also understanding how to use it to make a difference in my community."

 The Path Ahead

As the training progresses, these young people will continue to build on the foundational skills they have learned, to become digital leaders in their communities. We hope that this capacity-building initiative will catalyze further development, inspiring other communities to invest in their youth and recognise the critical role that digital skills play in today’s world.

The training in Dakwa is more than just a response to this year’s International Youth Day theme, it is a tangible investment in the future. By equipping young people with the tools, they need to succeed in the digital age, the program is laying the groundwork for a more informed, engaged, and empowered generation.