The United Nations International Children’s Education Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with the Sokoto State Government, on Tuesday inaugurated Nigeria’s first Digital Village for Almajiri children and out-of-school adolescent girls.

The initiative, hosted at the Sultan Muhammadu Maccido Institute for Qur’anic and General Studies in Sokoto township, is designed to empower 150 Almajiri boys and 100 girls in its first phase, equipping them with essential digital and vocational skills to become active and productive members of society.

The digital village aims to integrate digital literacy, vocational training, technological innovation, and life skills development. It also provides a safe space for mentorship and personal growth.

While the Sokoto State Government provided the infrastructure, UNICEF remodelled and fully equipped the facility.

Speaking at the launch, UNICEF Country Representative, Ms. Cristian Munduate—represented by Michaela Jima, Chief of Field Office, Sokoto, said the initiative is targeted at enhancing learning opportunities for vulnerable children.

“It will be delivered in local languages, with a curriculum covering digital literacy, vocational training, foundational literacy, numeracy, and life skills. This approach is tailored to the needs of these underserved groups, equipping them to thrive in today’s tech-driven world,” she said.

Munduate noted that the programme reflects UNICEF’s commitment to bridging the digital divide for vulnerable children and adolescents. 

She assured of continued collaboration with the Sokoto government to support interventions that protect children from violence, neglect, and exploitation.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, who officially launched the centre, described the Digital Village as a “game changer” for youths. 

He said the project would equip them with the skills needed to succeed in the modern economy.

“We are committed to supporting initiatives that empower our children with knowledge and skills for a brighter future”, the governor assured.