Kano Govt to Launch Diploma Programme for Social Media Advocates in Partnership with Bayero University
By Hassan Kano
In a bid to enhance the capacity of social media advocates in promoting government policies and programmes, the Kano State Government is considering introducing a diploma programme in collaboration with the Faculty of Communication, Bayero University, Kano.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, during the closing ceremony of a two-day workshop organized for social media advocates promoting Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s projects. The workshop, hosted by the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs in collaboration with Nexa Digital Services, aimed to equip the advocates with the necessary skills to effectively disseminate information on government initiatives.
Comrade Waiya emphasized that the proposed diploma programme would enable the advocates to leverage social media platforms to reach a wider audience, thereby enhancing the dissemination of information on government policies and programmes. He urged the advocates to conduct themselves with humility, responsibility, and respect in their engagements with the public, while preserving the dignity of both the government and themselves.
The Commissioner also encouraged the advocates to explore the vast business opportunities available on social media to empower themselves and attain financial independence. This visionary approach underscores Waiya’s leadership style, which prioritizes capacity building and economic empowerment.
The workshop featured presentations from renowned experts, including Malam Auwal Sa’id Mu’azu, an editor and media/communication consultant, who discussed “Media Convergence and Artificial Intelligence – A Strength or a Threat to Media Practice”. Other presenters included Aisha Bala Rabi’u and Aisar Salihu Fagge, both from the Department of Mass Communication, Kano State Polytechnic, who presented papers on “Understanding and Combating Misinformation, Fake News, and Fact-Checking Techniques” and “Content Creation and Impactful Social Media Messaging”, respectively.
The proposed diploma programme is a significant step towards enhancing digital literacy among social media advocates in Kano State. By equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge, the programme aims to promote effective governance and citizen engagement.
As the Kano State Government explores this innovative initiative, it is poised to set a precedent for other state governments in Nigeria. The programme’s success will depend on its implementation and the advocates’ ability to leverage their newfound skills to promote government policies and programmes.
Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya’s vision for a digitally empowered citizenry is commendable. His leadership style, which prioritizes capacity building and economic empowerment, is likely to have a positive impact on the state’s development. As the state government continues to explore innovative initiatives, Waiya’s visionary leadership will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping Kano’s future.
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