TechHer, in partnership with Cummins, Strengthens Digital Safety Education Through Teacher Capacity Training in Abuja

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

As part of ongoing efforts to promote safer digital learning environments for young people, TechHer, in collaboration with Cummins and supported by the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB) FCT,
organised a Training-of-Trainers (ToT) session for educators after the successful completion of its Digital Safety School Tour across Junior Secondary Schools in Gwagwa and Zuba, Abuja.

The training brought together ten teachers from JSS Gwagwa and JSS Zuba, equipping them with practical skills and resources to continue digital literacy and online safety education within their schools. The session builds on earlier engagements where over 212 students received foundational lessons on digital responsibility, online behaviour, and internet safety.

Recognising the important role teachers play in shaping students’ behaviours and decision-making, the training focused on helping educators better understand the realities of students’ digital experiences, identify online risks, and create safer learning environments both online and offline.

Opening the session, Ugochi Ihe, Digital Literacy and Education Officer at TechHer, highlighted the expanding responsibilities of educators in today’s increasingly connected world. She noted that teachers are now expected to support students beyond academic instruction, particularly as young
people navigate complex digital spaces.

Representing Cummins, Tina Ndam addressed participants and emphasised the link between digital safety and future learning opportunities, particularly in STEM-related fields. “At Cummins, we believe students can only fully explore and succeed in STEM when they are equipped to engage confidently and safely online. Supporting teachers with the right knowledge and tools is an important step toward preparing a generation that is both digitally aware and future-ready, ” she said.

The first session of the training, facilitated by Ms Ihe, explored the realities of today’s digital environment and how young people interact with online platforms. Through practical exercises and scenario-based discussions, teachers examined emerging online behaviours, warning signs of digital harm, and strategies for supporting students effectively.

Speaking during the session, she stated: “Digital safety education becomes more meaningful when it reflects the real experiences students face online every day. Teachers need to understand those realities deeply so guidance moves beyond theory and becomes practical, relatable, and responsive. ”
She further encouraged educators to continuously engage with evolving online trends and behaviours to ensure digital literacy remains relevant and impactful.

The second segment of the training was led by Gbemisola Adebowale, Women’s Digital Rights and Safety Officer at TechHer, following a discussion raised by teachers on how best to respond when students report harmful online experiences.

Her session focused on practical response mechanisms, including reporting procedures, referral pathways, and classroom-based strategies for addressing digital safety concerns. Participants also engaged in micro-teaching exercises designed to help them confidently deliver digital safety lessons and support students facing online challenges.

Speaking on the importance of response systems, Ms Adebowale noted:“When students choose to speak about harmful online experiences, the response they receive matters deeply. Teachers often become the first point of support, and their actions can shape whether students feel safe enough to continue seeking help. ”

She also stressed the importance of adaptability in education, noting that digital literacy must evolve alongside the changing realities of technology and online interaction. “The future of education is increasingly digital and interconnected. Teachers are now helping students navigate information, relationships, and risks in real time. That responsibility requires continuous learning, flexibility, and intentional support systems, ” she added.

The training concluded with a reflection session and a collective call for educators to embrace their roles not only as instructors, but also as trusted guides capable of recognising digital risks early and connecting students to appropriate support systems.

To support continued learning after the training, participants received digital safety charts and classroom toolkits designed to help integrate online safety lessons into everyday teaching practice. Sharing feedback after the session, Mrs Hadassah, a class teacher at JSS Zuba, said:

“This training has broadened my understanding of what it means to support students today. Their experiences online affect them deeply, and teachers have an important role to play in helping them navigate those spaces safely. ”

Similarly, Mr Salihu Jonah of JSS Gwagwa commended the practical approach of the training, stating: “What stood out to me was how practical the sessions were. We did not just discuss digital safety theoretically; we practised how to respond, teach, and guide students effectively. I am leaving with knowledge I can apply immediately. ”
This initiative reflects TechHer’s continued commitment to building safer digital ecosystems by empowering educators as key drivers of sustainable digital literacy and online safety education.
Through strategic partnerships and community-based engagement, TechHer remains committed to ensuring that young people are equipped to navigate digital spaces safely, responsibly, and
confidently.

For more information and inquiries, please contact Jemimah via communications@techherng.com or
+2349083041940