Foundation Takes Digital Literacy To Taraba Public Schools

The MarBen Foundation has reached over 3,000 students in 32 public secondary schools in Jalingo, Taraba State, under its Digital Bridge School Tour.

The ambitious digital literacy campaign was designed to bridge the growing digital divide among public school students.

It provided the participants with essential computer skills and practical exposure to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Computer-based Test (CBT) system.

During the tour, the executive director of MarBen Foundation, Dorcas Elisha, stressed the need to enhance digital competence among learners in public schools, particularly as national examinations such as JAMB, WAEC and NECO continue to transition to computer-based formats.

She said most students in rural communities lack access to computers, thereby leaving them at a severe disadvantage during national examinations and limiting their career prospects.

Elisha said the digital bridge school tour offered a comprehensive three-in-one learning package: basic digital literacy training, covering computer hardware, software, and introductory ICT skills; hands-on CBT simulation, allowing students to practice and navigate the JAMB interface and career and academic counselling, guiding participants on subject selection, course choices, and higher education opportunities.

“The project recorded significant improvements among students, with many showing increased confidence, better speed and enhanced understanding of digital tools needed for academic success.

“A number of the participants revealed that it was their first time operating a computer, highlighting the urgent need for improved digital access in public schools,” she said.

She appealed to the Taraba State government, private sector players and development partners to collaborate in scaling digital literacy efforts across the state and to introduce ICT capacity-building programmes for teachers to ensure long-term impact.